Motorists are being urged to make safe driving the priority over the Christmas and New Year period.
As part of a state-wide campaign, NSW Police will be highly visible and targeting high-risk driver behaviour.
Inspector Adam Wilson, from Nepean Police Area Command, said double-demerit points will be in place for 11 days, from 12am Friday, December 22, through to midnight Monday, January 1.
“The Christmas period is traditionally one of the busiest times of the year on our roads and I would urge drivers to take their time, drive to the weather conditions and respect other road users,” he told the Weekender.
“Police will be out in force over the Christmas break, targeting speeding, drink and drug driving, mobile phone use, seatbelt and motorcycle helmet offences.
“We want everyone to reach their destination safely. Drive responsibly, don’t speed, don’t take unnecessary risks, don’t get behind the wheel if you are tired and always have a Plan B if you intend on having a few drinks.”
Executive Director of Asset Management Branch at Transport for NSW, John Hardwick, said there has been a concerning increase in the road toll so far this year with 349 people dying on NSW roads.
“There are strong penalties for drivers and riders who break the rules and there are higher penalties in place for serious and repeated offences. No one should have to endure the pain of losing a loved one on the road,” he said.
Formerly with the ABC, Makayla is a graduate of Western Sydney University. She covers a variety of news topics for the Weekender, including courts.
