Police are urging motorists to drive safe this Australia Day, as a high visibility road safety operation is in force from the public holiday until the end of the weekend.
Operation Australia Day started on Wednesday and will end on Sunday.
Double demerit points will apply for the duration of the operation for speeding, mobile phone, seatbelt, and motorcycle helmet offences.
Traffic and Highway Patrol officers, with assistance from Police Area Commands and Police Districts, will be deployed across NSW.
Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Acting Assistant Commissioner Trent King, said with Australia Day falling on a Thursday, police expect a lot of people on the roads from Wednesday and across the weekend.
“With double demerits in place over five days we urge everyone to remember the consequences if you do the wrong thing behind the wheel,” A/Asst Comm King said. “While police will be doing everything in their power to work with the community to keep our roads safe, we also want to advise motorists that everyone has a role to play.
“Inside each and every vehicle you pass on the road is a loved one: a mate, a mother, a father, child or a sibling – and we can all take steps to keep them out of harm’s way.”
Head of safety at Transport for NSW Peter Dunphy said although the road toll currently stands at 13, which is seven less than for the same time last year, it is important motorists don’t become complacent.
“Keeping safe on the roads is everyone’s responsibility, so please make sure you’re well rested before you set off, stick to the speed limit and give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination, put the phone away and never ever drive if you’re affected by drugs or alcohol,” Mr Dunphy said.
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