We’ve definitely had some wintery weather this week. As a result, we’ve seen localised flooding and fallen trees due, so please continue to be vigilant when travelling.
Weather conditions aren’t the only risk on the roads, however. This week we stopped a car that was completely missing a rear door handle and neither rear door could be opened from the outside – and the insides were broken. A rear window was also broken and covered in plastic.
Not surprisingly, the car had not had a warrant of fitness since 2019. The unroadworthy condition of the car meant it was a huge safety risk to not only its own occupants (which included an unrestrained child), but also to any other vehicles on the road.
It was promptly issued with a non-operate order until repairs are made and a current warrant obtained. It is important that any vehicle is maintained to avoid vehicle breakdowns and failures that could cause a crash, or lessen protection provided to the occupants should they have one.
We also continue to catch people driving in excess of the speed limit or with excess breath alcohol (drunk driving). Before you get behind the wheel, stop and think. Are you and the car in the best (legal) condition to be on the road?
On another topic, this week while away, I had one of those takeaway issues where my pizza was delivered to a completely different house to that in which I was staying. A phone call to the company saw a replacement swiftly despatched with a side as compensation.
Sometimes however, the purchases we make online aren’t so easily replaced and compensation is not forthcoming at all. Yes, I have written about online purchase and sale fraud prevention before. The number of complaints that continue to come in across the district, suggest that another reminder is due.
When buying a product from Facebook market place or other online avenue, always do your research. Google the company, read reviews and with Facebook marketplace, pay for higher value items upon collection, not before. Equally, when selling high value items, either require cash payment on pick up or wait until the funds are well and truly in your account before handing over the item. Don’t let a purchaser rush you. It is possible for fraudsters to forge screenshots of payment transfers when they haven’t really happened.
Consider Trade Me over local buy and sell pages, as it offers more protection for both buyers and sellers.
Until next time, enjoy your week. Deb
