Police check 239kmh post

Police said the speed displayed in the photograph was ''extremely'' concerning. Photo Getty
Police said the speed displayed in the photograph was ''extremely'' concerning. Photo Getty
Police are investigating a motorcyclist who posted on social media a photograph of themselves travelling more than twice the speed limit.

The image, which originated on a Facebook page and had been passed on to police, appeared to show a motorcycle travelling in Central Otago at 239kmh.

The image was posted in response to a Queenstown resident who had complained about locals using their cellphones while driving.

''If I had a gold coin for every time I saw a driver with a phone against his or her ear, I'd be able to afford rent in Queenstown,'' the post said.

In response, the motorcyclist posted the photograph - which apparently was taken on a cellphone - with a message and a laughing emoji.

''Stop whingeing - it's safe as houses,'' the rider's response said.

Otago Lakes Central area road policing manager Senior Sergeant Glenn Wilkinson said the speed displayed in the photograph was ''extremely'' concerning.

''Police can confirm they are investigating the post and are extremely concerned with the high speed displayed in the photo,'' Snr Sgt Wilkinson said.

''In 2016, 25% of fatal crashes in the Southern district involved motorcyclists and speed was a factor in many of these.

''This is extremely concerning and police urge motorists to check their speed and keep our roads safe.''

timothy.brown@odt.co.nz

Comments

In 2016, 25% of fatal crashes in the Southern district involved motorcyclists and speed was a factor in many of these.
How many, why only do half a story?
I have to say the standard of journalism across the country is sadly lacking. If your going to report something, why not report it completely.

fake news they call it..

Speed is not necessarily a problem, but the combination of excessive speed for the road can be. Quite often it is the road itself that is the problem. For example, I did 250km/h quite legally and safely in my car on a dual carriage way in Germany. Speed was not a problem and faster than this motor cyclist. The difference being that the road is designed for these speeds and the other drivers are aware of these speeds. Also the cars are capable of doing these speeds safely.

Why does no one ever blame the road design and its always speed that is the problem. Look at the statistics for NZ vs UK and Germany for road deaths per population. UK and Germany have some very fast roads. They are just safer roads. The people driving are much the same.

 

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