This year's road deaths top entire 2013 toll

A memorial cross at the site of a fatal road accident. PHOTO / FILE

More people have died on New Zealand roads this year than the entire number killed in 2013.

AA has issued a warning to road users following the concerning figures, which show 255 people have been killed this year compared to 253 in 2013.

AA motoring affairs general manager Mike Noon said 2013's toll was a record low, but with 81 days left of this year, things were not looking good.

"In 2013 New Zealand had a record low road toll of 253 deaths but since then the number of road deaths has sadly gone back up," he said.

"The AA is extremely sad and concerned to see more people hurt and dying in crashes.

"Our population has grown and the amount people are driving is increasing but the question of why we have seen the road toll go up significantly from 2013 is something authorities need to be looking at."

Noon warned all road users to take responsibility when on the road.

"Every time someone slows down in poor conditions, or makes sure they have a good following distance, or doesn't use their cellphone when driving could be the time that saves a life.

"Making our roads safer is about more than just wearing your seat belt and not drinking and driving. Every driver will have moments where they could play it a bit safer and reduce their risks of being hurt in a crash."

How to stay safe on the roads
• Drive to the conditions
• Stick to a safe speed
• Give yourself more following distance
• Focus on driving
• Don't drive when you are tired