At approximately 10.45am Monday 30 January 2012, Police were advised of a two vehicle crash on Pipers River Road, approximately 850 metres north of Lewis Road, Pipers River, involving a 1984 white Mazda 626 sedan and a white 1998 Landrover 110 flat tray.

The crash has occurred on the southern side of a sweeping blind bend, when the Mazda sedan, travelling south has lost control on the wet road, the rear sliding to the right and the driver has over corrected, with the vehicle crossing to the incorrect side of the road and colliding with the north bound Landrover.

The Mazda has been at an angle when both vehicles met head on (off-set collision), with the Landrover rolling onto the driver side, stopping on the verge on the western side of the road.  The Mazda had stopped on the verge on the eastern side of the road.

The 62 yo male driver, from Pipers River, of the Mazda sedan was trapped in his vehicle, being extracted by S.E.S. and Ambulance personnel.  He has died while being conveyed to the Launceston General Hospital, from the severe trauma received from the impact. 

The 42 yo male driver of the Landrover, also from the Pipers River area,  received no apparent physical injuries.

Weather conditions at the time of the crash were overcast and raining.  The road was wet but in good condition with no defect that could have contributed to the crash.  The painted centre line was in good condition and clearly visible.  The corner had no water laying on the road, however the bitumen surface was slippery, with the recent hot, dry conditions being considered a contributing factor.  It would appear the driver of the sedan has failed to drive to the road conditions, although, it does not appear that either vehicle involved had exceeded the default speed limit (100 km/h).  Both drivers were wearing their seat belts.

The road was closed for approximately 4 hours, while vehicles and debris was cleared from the scene.  Tas Ambulance, Tas Fire (Volunteer – Karoola) and a S.E.S Unit (George Town) attended the scene, along with Tamania Police Personnel.

Police would like to remind drivers to expect the roads to be slippery when it rains after hot, dry conditions and to ask drivers to reduce their speed under these conditions.

Police are seeking witnesses to the crash, or those that may have seen either vehicle prior to the crash.  Anyone with information is asked to contact Northern Crash Investigation Services on 131 444 or 6336 3701.

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