The Authority oversaw a Police investigation relating to a motor vehicle accident in the Auckland City District. A Constable engaged in urgent duty driving in response to alarm activations at a warehouse, took a left turn at speed and was forced to take evasive action in avoiding an oncoming vehicle. He subsequently lost control and crashed into an unoccupied legally-parked civilian vehicle. No injuries were sustained although both vehicles suffered extensive damage.
Police conducted both criminal and employment investigations. Police determined the Constable was entitled to undertake urgent duty driving but his decision to make the left-hand turn was neither prudent nor reasonable given the speed at which he was travelling. The Constable's actions were appropriately addressed by Police and he was charged with careless driving and dealt with by way of diversion. The Authority agreed with the Police investigation conclusions.
IPCA: 17-1769