TRANSPORT for NSW is reminding motorists double demerits points apply for speeding, seatbelt and motorcycle helmet offences during the Queen’s Birthday long weekend.
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“Long weekends are always busy on NSW roads with thousands of people using the car for short breaks or to visit family and friends,” a Transport for NSW spokesperson said.
“To encourage motorists to drive carefully double demerit points will be in place from midnight Thursday 7 to midnight Monday June 11.”
The spokesperson said double demerit point periods exist to give drivers even more reason to drive safely. During long weekends the roads are busier so there is an increased risk of crashes and fatalities.
The most common offences which attract double demerit points are:
• exceed speed limit by not more than 10km/h – 2 points
• exceed speed limit by 11-20km/h – 6 points
• exceed speed limit by 21-30km/h – 8 points
• exceed speed limit by 31-45km/h – 10 points and licence suspension
• exceed speed limit by more than 45km/h – 12 points and licence suspension
• driver not wearing own seatbelt – 6 points
• driver with passengers not wearing seatbelt – minimum 6 points
• motorcycle rider without own helmet – 6 points
• motorcycle rider with a passenger not wearing a helmet – minimum 6 points
Penalties for some offences are higher in school zones. P plate drivers especially need to drive carefully as they are at greater risk of losing their licence if they break the law during the double demerit period.
“Double demerit point periods save lives and reduce the road toll, but there are also other simple steps motorists can take to help keep themselves, their passengers and others safe on the roads,” the spokesperson said.
“Don’t drink or take drugs before you drive, make sure you and your passengers are wearing seatbelts or helmets and drive to the speed limit.
“Don’t rush to your destination, speeding or driving while fatigued just to arrive a little bit earlier can have devastating consequences. Allow extra time and arrive safely.”
According to provisional data there were 465 crashes on NSW roads during the Queen’s Birthday long weekend double demerit period in 2011. These crashes resulted in four people being killed and injuries to 257 people.
“Last year two less people died on NSW roads during the Queen’s Birthday long weekend double demerit period than in 2010. Although that’s one of the lowest road tolls for this long weekend in almost 20 years, it’s still too many lives lost needlessly,” the spokesperson said.
Motorists also need to make sure they recognise the early warning signs of fatigue and take regular breaks while driving.
“If you notice your eyes are getting tired or you’re yawning, feeling drowsy or having trouble concentrating on driving, ensure you stop and rest. These are all signs you might be in danger of having a microsleep and losing control of your vehicle, which may have fatal consequences,” the spokesperson said.
“Avoid driving at times when you would normally be sleeping, make sure you have had plenty of sleep before you start a long journey and if possible share the driving.
The spokesperson also said the ‘Stop, Revive, Survive’ message is as important as ever.
“Take regular breaks from driving. There are more than 1400 rest areas across the state. Many have toilets, picnic tables, barbeque facilities, playgrounds and shaded areas to help refresh travelers before continuing their journeys.”
A map of rest areas in NSW is available from the Roads and Maritime Services website.
The Transport for NSW spokesperson said motorists should also be aware Friday June 8 is a gazetted school day during the double demerit period and increased penalties apply for offences committed in school zones.
“The majority of school zones operate between 8am and 9.30am and between 2.30pm and 4pm, however there are a small number of non-standard school zone times in New South Wales,” the spokesperson said.
Penalties for motorists caught speeding in school zones range from a $154 penalty and two demerit points to a $2041 penalty. In addition motorists can incur up to 14 demerit points during double demerit point periods. Penalties are higher for heavy vehicles.
“Motorists can prepare for long weekend road trips by checking traffic conditions by phoning the Transport Management Centre on 132 701, visiting www.livetraffic.com or by downloading the Live Traffic iPhone app.”
