Opinion: A timely reminder to take care on roads this Christmas

Police carry out an investigation at the scene of the crash that killed Steven Ioane. PHOTO/FILE

While Christmas is meant to be a time of happiness and joy, the lead-up to the big day can be stressful, tiring and downright frantic.

So it can be all too easy to let the mind slip while driving, thinking about what gifts still need buying or where the visitors are going to sleep or all that work you need to get done before the break.

New Zealand police yesterday issued a release urging drivers to be mindful of others over what they say is a "really high-risk time on our roads".

Police issue these types of reminders ahead of most holidays - as they should. But it does mean we can become immune to the messages contained within them and brush them off as not applying to us. After all, we are all good drivers right?

But a case in the Rotorua District Court yesterday made me really stop and think.

Witika Wharerau, described in court as an asset to his community and an exemplary leader, was convicted of careless driving causing death after he failed to see motorcyclist Steven Ioane and the two collided. Mr Ioane, a father of two young daughters, was killed. In a split second not one but two families were left reeling.

It terrifies me how a small lapse in concentration or error can have such devastating consequences. No one is perfect, we are all humans and humans make mistakes. Luckily, most of us get away with it.

It was a timely and powerful reminder.

Slow down, pay attention, buckle up, don't drink and drive, don't drive tired and be alert to others - because even if you are doing everything right others may not be. Let's make sure as few families as possible lose a loved one this festive season.