Double demerits come into force on Thursday (17 April) and remain until Monday (21 April). Photo: Michelle Kroll.
Double demerits aren’t the only reason to take care on the roads this Easter long weekend.
Police said 41 people died on NSW roads in March alone this year, the highest number of fatalities in a single month since 2019.
More than 100 people have died on NSW roads this year.
Deputy Commissioner Paul Pisanos urged drivers to take care over the school holiday period.
He said you were four times more likely to die on the road than become a murder victim.
“Last year in NSW, there were 85 murders. However, 338 people died on our roads,” Deputy Commissioner Pisanos said.
“That is a senseless loss of life.
“The only way to stop the carnage is for drivers to step up and stick to the rules.
“One wrong move behind the wheel and you’re dead.”
Double demerits will be in place from Thursday (17 April) until Monday (21 April) inclusive for all speeding, seatbelt, mobile phone and motorcycle helmet offences.
A second double demerit period will be in effect from 24 to 27 April.
NSW Police will have a high-visibility presence across the state during Operation Easter 2025 and Operation ANZAC Day 2025.
The police operations will occur during the NSW school holidays, when a large number of families will be travelling to and from destinations across the state.
Officers will target risky driver behaviour, including the ‘Four Ds’: drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving, as well as speeding, not wearing seatbelts, and mobile phone use.
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said police would maintain a zero-tolerance approach to dangerous driving behaviour, just as they did every day of the year.
“We know everyone’s eager to get where they’re going and be with family and friends but we want you to get there safely,” Minister Catley said.
“This means slowing down, driving to the conditions and making smart choices every time you get behind the wheel.
“Don’t make this a holiday to remember for all the wrong reasons.
“No-one wants their long weekend story to end with flashing lights, a court date, or worse – a knock on the door that no family should ever receive.
“If you speed, drive under the influence, use your phone, or push through fatigue – you’re putting lives at risk. Don’t do it.
“Slow down, switch off, and stop if you’re tired. It’s that simple.”
Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner David Driver, reminded motorists to drive to the conditions, anticipate delays and respect all other road users.
He said fully-laden cars would take longer to stop due to the additional weight and it was worth leaving a bit of extra space between other vehicles.
Original Article published by Zoe Cartwright on Region Illawarra.
