A coroner has urged drivers to recognise the signs of fatigue after it was identified as the primary cause of a crash that cost a Tauranga student his life on the Matatā straights three years ago.

Keanan Coetzee, 18, was on his way to work experience in Kawerau on the morning of June 15, 2022, when his car drifted into the path of an oncoming truck.

The head-on collision killed the Tauranga Boys’ College student immediately.

Findings released by Coroner Ian Telford recently found that Keanan’s fatigue was the primary contributor to the crash. A toxicology report found no alcohol or drugs of any kind in his blood.

Coroner Telford said Keanan likely fell asleep at the wheel.

Footage captured by another motorist showed his vehicle taking a corner wide immediately before the crash, recovering, then drifting into the opposite lane despite the presence of an oncoming truck.

“The vehicle’s rear brake light illuminated a split second before impact, which may indicate that he woke at that point.”

That the crash was head on, the time it occurred and that Keanan was the sole occupant in his vehicle were all factors known to be relevant in fatigue-related crashes, the coroner said.

There is evidence the teen used his phone during his journey, but the coroner said it was not in use during the crash.

Coroner Telford considered it likely that Keanan was experiencing cumulative sleep deprivation due to repeated late nights and earlier than usual wake up times.

An expert report was commissioned as part of the inquest.

It said impairments caused by driving while fatigued are comparable to, or greater than, alcohol intoxication.

“In broad summary, research shows that even one night of poor or restricted sleep impairs alertness, mood, and performance,” Coroner Telford said.

“Chronic sleep restriction amplifies these effects and increases the risk of microsleeps.

“Tragically, this pattern mirrors what happened to Keanan, underscoring the critical importance of never driving while fatigued.”

The coroner urged the public to follow New Zealand Transport Agency’s practical advice on recognising the warning signs of fatigue, steps to prevent fatigue, and guidance for long trips, such as pausing to rest before continuing.

“As the summer holiday season nears and we take to the roads, Keanan’s tragic death highlights the critical importance of following the NZTA’s guidance, summarised in their simple message: If you feel tired, don’t drive. Don’t risk your life or the lives of others.”