Passengers involved in two fatal car crashes in Christchurch within 12 hours were not wearing seatbelts.
Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller
One person died and another three were taken to hospital after a single car crashed on Gloucester Street at 11pm last night.
The car had been involved in a police chase but the crash happened five minutes after the police ended their pursuit.
Earlier that day another person died and two others were taken to hospital in a crash at the intersection of Colombo and Sandyford streets.
Superintendent Lane Todd said lives could have been saved if the passengers were buckled up.
"Restraints are actually one of our best ways to prevent serious injury and fatality.
"It's very easy to put a seatbelt on as we know, and it is extremely frustrating for us when it still doesn't occur. And in particular in relation to passengers who've been thrown from vehicles."
Mr Todd said it was very concerning that people were not getting the message.
The crashes were a timely reminder in the lead up to the busy summer season for people to buckle up, he said.