ROAD SAFETY IS EVERYONE’S RESPONSIBILITY
After a shocking 332 deaths on NSW roads this year, all road users are being reminded that everyone’s safety is their responsibility this Christmas and New Year holiday period.
Traffic and Highway Patrol Command officers, together with local police across NSW, will be targeting all road-related rules, including drink and drug driving, distractions, driving tired, and any dangerous driving behaviours which put the safety of road users at risk.
The NSW Police Force will begin their holiday operation this week with double demerits coming into effect overnight, running from Friday 20 December 2024 to Wednesday 1 January 2025.
NSW Shadow Minister for Police Paul Toole said although police will have a highly visible presence on the roads, the key to reducing accidents is taking responsibility – for yourself, your family, your passengers, and every other road user.
“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,” Mr Toole said.
“While police will be out in force, please remember that road safety is everyone’s responsibility. You don’t want to be the person whose irresponsible behaviour changes a life – or lives – forever.
“What’s worse than getting a fine in the mail or losing your licence, is being the reason a family has an empty chair at their table this Christmas, so I’m calling on drivers to do the right thing every time they get behind the wheel.
“Unfortunately, some people still think they’re above the law, whether it’s quickly checking a text, driving too fast, or getting behind the wheel when tired or under the influence, there are road rules for a reason which, when followed, means everyone can arrive safely at their destination this holiday period.”
The NSW road toll for 2024 currently stands at 12 more than this time last year.
The NSW Opposition is encouraging all drivers to always have a Plan B in place before your first drink, and never drink or drug drive.
If you are getting behind the wheel – even if it’s a short trip, never drive if you’re tired, buckle up, stay under the speed limit, and put the phone away.
To help plan your trip anywhere in NSW, traffic conditions can be found at: https://www.livetraffic.com.
