Sergeant Mitchell Gage said: “We want everyone to make it to and from their holiday destinations safely this Christmas.”
Double demerit points will be in force for 13 days over the Christmas and New Year period. Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils’ Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, MelanieSuitor said that double demerit points would run from Friday 20 December 2024 to Wednesday 1 January 2025 inclusive for all speeding, seatbelt, motorcycle helmet and mobile phone offences.
Ms Suitor said double demerit points have proven to be an effective road safety initiative to make holiday travel safer for everyone on New South Wales’ roads.
“Traffic on roads to popular holiday destinations, increases by up to 50% during the Christmas and the New Year holiday period, so it is important to obey all the road rules and drive safely.
“While driving, focus on driving. Don’t allow yourself to be distracted by your mobile phone, follow the road rules and drive to suit the conditions. Please make sure that you and your passengers are buckled up.
Parkes Highway Patrol Sergeant Mitchell Gage is warning drivers that they are at greatest risk of losing their licence during this period.
“There will be more Police on the roads which means a greater chance of drivers being caught if they are doing the wrong thing.
“So, make sure you give yourself plenty of time to travel, don’t speed, drive to the conditions, wear your seatbelt, avoid distractions, make sure you’re well rested and if you’ve been drinking or have taken drugs – don’t drive.