NSW Police are urging motorists to be safe on the roads this Easter long weekend and school holidays following an increase in fatalities.
NSW Police will have a high visibility presence across the state through Operation Easter 2025 and Operation ANZAC Day 2025 to coincide with the higher number of motorists travelling across the state.
Double demerits will be in place from Thursday, April 17 until Monday, April 21 and a second double demerits period will be in place from Thursday, April 24 until Sunday, April 27.
Officers will be targeting risky driver behaviour including drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving, as well as speeding, not wearing seatbelts, mobile phone use and motorcycle helmet offences.
Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner David Driver reminded motorists to drive to the conditions, anticipate delays and respect all other road users.
“Drivers need to take responsibility and know that with the extra police presence on our roads that they will be held to account for their actions,” Driver said.
“Drivers are reminded that if they are travelling with luggage, the additional weight means cars will take longer to stop. Therefore, leave plenty of space between other vehicles.
“We need every road user – whether they’re a driver, passenger, motorcyclist, cyclist, or pedestrian – to follow the road rules, not become complacent and to make smart choices.
“That includes sticking to the speed limit, wearing a seatbelt, never driving when tired, not using a mobile phone while driving and do not drive if affected by drugs or alcohol.
“Drivers are reminded to take regular breaks and be patient and calm in holiday traffic.”
NSW Police Deputy Commissioner Paul Pisanos said the number of lives lost on our roads this year has already reached an alarming level, with 39 crashes resulting in 41 people killed in March, the highest in a month since 2019.
“Last year in NSW there were 85 murders; however, four times as many people – 338 – died on our roads: that is a senseless loss of life,” Pisanos said.
“The only way to stop the carnage is for drivers to step-up and stick to the rules, it’s just not worth your life. One wrong move behind the wheel and you’re dead.”
Emily Chate
Emily Chate joined The Western Weekender in 2024, and covers local news - primarily courts and politics. A graduate of the University of Wollongong, Emily has contributed to The Daily Telegraph and worked as a freelance journalist.