The police are projecting a bump in the number of road incidents this month, due to the onset of the festive season, a statement from the Cook Islands Police Service said.

According to police spokesperson Trevor Pitt, figures over the past few years show that December inevitably results in a higher number of crashes.

While reported motor vehicle crashes are trending lower this year, thanks to the reduced volume of traffic on the road, driver attitudes and behaviour continue to keep the traffic incidents up.

There were nine reported crashes on Rarotonga during November – a drop on the previous month of 13 and a low compared to the same period in previous years. 

Pitt said: “Rarotonga could set a yearly record for motor vehicle crashes if drivers manage to rein in their stupid behaviour and concentrate properly on the road.”

Police will be stepping up traffic enforcement for the festive season and all drivers should meet their legal requirements for driving and vehicle documentation.

“Failures to meet those road rules will only result in the diversion of your hard-earned Christmas money towards paying penalties,” Pitt said.

“So please, check your warrants of fitness, annual registration, license, and make sure you fasten the strap on an approved safety helmet when on a motorbike. Do not drink and drive. There’s no future in it!”

Meanwhile Police Prosecution has completed its calculation of demerit points incurred by drivers, who have been convicted of certain traffic offenses, since 2016. 

Over that period of five years, only one driver has exceeded the 100-point threshold to have their licence disqualified, said police.

A second is currently at 75 points.  A further 250 people are presently accruing below 50 points. Police are attributing demerit points for speeding, no approved safety helmet, and careless or dangerous driving, upon conviction.