The seventh crash near roadworks on SH2, taking the total to 15 cars wrecked in a week and a half. PHOTO/MARY ARGUE
Waka Kotahi NZTA is halting roadworks on State Highway 2 after yet another crash in the area.
Emergency services responded to a three-car nose-to-tail shortly before 9am on Wednesday.
The crash, just south of Wiltons Rd on SH2, left two blue sedans with severely crushed bonnets and a grey station wagon with a damaged rear bumper.
Carterton Fire Brigade, police, and ambulance services attended, however no serious injuries were reported.
It was the seventh crash in 11 days in the area, taking the number of vehicles involved to 15.
Last week six crashes were reported between Clareville and Waingawa, including a five-vehicle nose-to-tail on Friday afternoon, resulting in multiple complaints to NZTA about a lack of signage and hidden queues.
NZTA and the roading contractor made a joint decision on Wednesday to shutdown the roadworks after the latest incident.
NZTA regional infrastructure delivery manager Jetesh Bhula said the call was made to close the site in order to review safety options for workers and road users.
He said the work was expected to resume on Monday.
Bhula said improved safety measures were made after last week’s crash toll, including installing message signs north and south of the roadworks and closing passing lanes.
He said the southbound passing lane would be permanently closed.
The work to install three roundabouts along SH2 between Carterton and Masterton began in May, and is scheduled to finish August next year.
Bhula said the roadworks were part of a package of improvements designed to make the section of road safer.
“However, drivers and road crews must be kept safe while this work is done.
“We ask that drivers pay close attention to the warning signs in place, familiarise themselves with the road changes, and follow the speed limits in place.”
