Police urge motorists to slow down and stay safe ahead of double demerit period

All road users are being reminded that everyone’s safety is their responsibility as the NSW Police Force launches this year’s Christmas/New Year holiday enforcement operation.

Double demerits will run for 11 days from 12.01 am on Friday (December 23) until 11.59 pm on Monday (2 January), with police targeting speeding, mobile phone, seatbelt, and motorcycle helmet offences.

Riverina Police District Inspector for Community Engagement Jill Gibson said it was terrific to get together with family and friends during the Christmas break, but some people might have a “few too many eggnogs”.

“Just remember, if you’re asked to leave, it’s time to go,” Inspector Gibson said. “Look after your friends and make sure you’re not out there drink driving.

“Protect other road users … that’s one of the big messages.

“And remember to be tolerant of each other. Walking away sometimes is the best solution to get out of an argument.”

Inspector Gibson said everyone must have a plan B, which could include turning to Uber, a taxi, bus, friend, family member or staying the night where you are.

“It’s not a singular thing to do. You’ve got all these options in front of you,” she said.

Inspector Gibson hopes everyone has a wonderful Christmas and new year and that kids have great school holidays.

“Just look after yourselves,” she said.

Police across NSW and Traffic and Highway Patrol Command officers will be enforcing all road-related legislation, including laws surrounding drink and drug driving, distractions, driving tired, and any dangerous driving behaviours which put the safety of road users at risk.

Acting Premier and Minister for Police Paul Toole said everyone had a role to play on the roads these holidays.

“Unfortunately, some people still think they’re above the law, whether it’s quickly checking a text, driving too fast because the road is familiar, or getting behind the wheel when tired, but we have road rules for a reason because we want everyone to arrive safely at their destination this holiday period,” Mr Toole said.

“While police will be out in force, please remember that road safety is everyone’s responsibility.

“You don’t want to get a fine in the mail or lose your licence, but worse still, you don’t want to be the reason someone can’t celebrate with all their loved ones this Christmas, so I’m calling on drivers to do the right thing every time they get behind the wheel.”

Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner Brett McFadden, said the holiday period was traditionally the busiest time of year on NSW roads, which could potentially make it the most dangerous.

“Police maintain a highly visible presence on our roads but the key to reducing road trauma lies in taking responsibility – for yourself, your family, your passengers, and every other road user,” he said.

“Whenever a person gets behind the wheel, we need to consider that as entering a social contract with those people: you agree to do the right thing and make sure we all reach our destinations safe and sound.

“You don’t want to be the person whose irresponsible behaviour changes a life – or lives – forever.

“The most important gift you can give this festive season is being responsible. Be the motorist who obeys the road rules and drives to the conditions, not the motorist who drives recklessly and kills someone.”

The NSW road toll for 2022 stands at 279, which is 15 more than at the same time last year.

To help plan your trip anywhere in NSW, up-to-the-minute traffic conditions can be found here.