Northern Territory Police continue to urge motorists to drive with care following multiple serious road crashes as a result of not driving to the weather conditions.   

In recent weeks, officers stationed at Adelaide River have had to attend five road crashes.   

Remote Sergeant Peter Birch, who attended all five incidents, said “The rate of crashes around this area is a serious concern.  

“These road crashes were due to the drivers being unable to drive to the weather conditions. It is sheer luck that there had been no fatalities as a result. Alcohol or speed were not contributing factors in these crashes.”

On 16 December, Sergeant Birch attended a crash where it had been raining heavily.

“The crash was a truck vs car outside of Adelaide River. The car had aquaplaned before entering the next lane, striking the guard railing with enough force raising the rear of the vehicle to a height were it collided with the front of a truck before rolling over the railing and down a 10 metre embankment.

“I didn’t think anyone was going to survive this crash. The driver was lucky enough to only suffer a laceration to the face”.

At the same incident, the vehicle of a driver who had stopped to assist was rear-ended by another vehicle.  

“Drivers need to be vigilant when in the vicinity of a road crash. Ensure you keep an eye on anyone who may have pulled over to assist.”

During the same week, with heavy rain in the area, a head on collision occurred after a vehicle aquaplaned directly into an oncoming car.

The driver of the out-of-control vehicle was trapped and suffered serious chest injuries.

On Monday 28 December, a vehicle was travelling along Stuart Highway when the vehicle hit a puddle of water and aquaplaned, causing the vehicle to come off the road and strike a tree in a storm water drain.

“Please ensure you are driving to the conditions and do not put your life or others at risk.”  

NT Police also warn that tiredness is another cause of serious injury or death on the road.

On Sunday 27 December, a man had fallen asleep at the wheel and drifted into the next lane, colliding with another car.

“Driving fatigued is as dangerous as driving under the influence. If you’re tired, pull over and have a rest.”