School Van Slips Off Road in Hawke’s Bay

One Injured After Crash on Icy Maraekakaho Route

A school van skidded off a rural road in Hawke’s Bay, critically injuring the driver who was transported to hospital. The incident occurred on Kereru Road in Maraekakaho on Monday morning.

Black Ice Causes Van to Veer Off Road

The vehicle, carrying one child besides the driver, reportedly encountered black ice. It veered off the road and came to rest in a shelter belt of trees. Police were alerted to the single-vehicle collision at approximately 7:45 AM.

Authorities Warn of Icy Conditions

Following the crash, authorities notified Hastings District Council about the presence of black ice. The council was requested to implement signage to alert drivers to the hazardous road conditions in the affected area.

Road safety remains a critical concern, especially during winter months. For instance, in the UK, it’s estimated that around 2,000 people are killed or seriously injured each year in accidents where ice or snow is a contributing factor (Department for Transport, 2023).

Emergency Services Respond

Emergency services were dispatched to the scene. The condition of the driver was described as serious. The child who was in the van at the time of the incident was also attended to by emergency personnel.