As we get ready to celebrate Australia Day, and school holidays are coming to an end for thousands of local students, drivers are being reminded that double demerit points will be in force for four days for this long weekend.
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Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils' Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor, said that double demerit points would be in force from Friday, January 25 to Monday, January 28 (inclusive) for all speeding, seatbelt, motorcycle helmet and mobile phone offences.
“Since their introduction in 1997, double demerit points have proven to be a successful deterrent to unsafe driving behaviours and reducing the road toll on holiday periods when the roads are at their busiest,” Ms Suitor said.
“Please drive safely and take extra care on the roads this long weekend. Driving over the speed limit to save a couple of minutes, pushing on driving when you are tired, answering your mobile phone whilst behind the wheel and driving after a few drinks isn't worth the risk of not arriving at all.”
Key double demerit points that will be in force are:
- Exceed the speed limit by 10km/h and under
- Exceed the speed limit by over 10km/h
- Exceed the speed limit by over 20km/h
- Exceed the speed limit by over 30km/h
- Exceed the speed limit by over 45km/h
- Driver not wearing his/her own seatbelt
- Driver penalty for each passenger not wearing a seatbelt
- Rider on a motorcycle not wearing his/her own helmet
- Rider penalty for passenger on a motorcycle not wearing a helmet
- Use a mobile phone while driving
Chief Inspector David Cooper from NSW Police is encouraging all road users to pay attention to road conditions and allow plenty of travel time.
“The road toll over the Christmas/New Year period fell from 31 in 2017/2018 to seven this year - and whilst the message seems to be getting through - that's still seven families affected by the loss of a loved one,” he said.
“During Operation Safe Arrival Police issued more than 1,000 less speeding tickets, did more random breath tests and had less drink driving charges.
“But we are still seeing some poor decisions made by a handful of drivers across the state.
“Drivers should be warned that they are at greatest risk of losing their licence during this four day period. There will be more Police on the roads and therefore more chance of getting caught.
“The increase in traffic increases the risk of crashes occurring but we all have a part to play in reducing the number of crashes and risks.
“Remember to slow down, schedule plenty of breaks during your trip, don’t drink and drive, limit distractions in the car and ensure all your passengers are wearing their seatbelt.”
For further information please contact Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils' Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor, on (02) 6861 2364.
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