The driver of the Mercedes Benz that crashed on the Kaimai Ranges killing Matamata teen Jasmine Clothier was a forbidden driver.
Jasmine, 17, was the front seat passenger of the older model car travelling toward the summit from the Waikato when it crashed with a Honda travelling in the opposite direction on Saturday.
Police have confirmed the driver of the older model Mercedes was a forbidden driver.
Waikato District road policing manager, Inspector Freda Grace, says it initially appears the Mercedes crossed the centreline and collided with the oncoming car.
Freda confirmed to SunLive the male driver was earlier forbidden by police to drive, but cannot speculate on what caused him to cross the centreline in wet conditions.
'It's a matter of fact that he was a forbidden driver. Whether that contributed to the crash I don't know,” says Freda.
'They [Serious Crash Unit] have only undertaken some of the most basic things to do that analysis today. It will be a little while till we can comment.”
Forbidden drivers either do not have a current driver's licence, or have been deemed unsafe to drive by police. It is not a court imposed condition but is used by police when encountering a driver that is unlicensed.
If a driver is caught again unlicensed, they can be charged with driving while forbidden and their car seized.
The driver of the Mercedes and driver and sole occupant of the other vehicle involved in the crash near the summit escaped uninjured.
Freda says SCU is continuing to investigate.
3 comments
Sin is the result of disobedience
Posted on 05-08-2014 16:57 | By Watchdog
When we think we are above the law, we break the rules and tragically this happens all too often. A lovely life lost. I feel for both families in this situation. But if you are a young lady and are going out with someone who breaks rules on the road, perhaps it is time to say "No!" It might save your life.
forbidden driving
Posted on 05-08-2014 20:44 | By murphy
Unfortuately New Zealand judges punish people who drive without a licence , by forbiddng them to drive . Doesnt it occur to them , the fact that they are continuing to drive , means it doesnt work .
So, what do you think now..?
Posted on 05-08-2014 20:57 | By groutby
you forbidden driver who presumably couldn't give a rats razoo about his actions or consequences...too late to worry about seizing the car now..it's munted!..more importantly, so is a human life and and grieving family to go with it. Rational words do not come easily for me when you have such stupidity...so, I agree with Watchdog and my sincerest condolences to the family of Jasmine for their loss. Young people, you have all the time in the world to make the right decision, just think, even for a short while before you do something you know you shouldn't..please....
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