Think twice before breaking the road rules this Easter long weekend, with double demerits in force as of now.
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NSW police have developed the ‘Double Demerits - Think Twice' road safety campaign to encourage safe driver behaviour on our roads.
The campaign reminds drivers and riders that during double demerit periods the consequences for breaking the road rules are more severe.
Highway Patrol sergeant Paul Dilley confirmed extra resources will be in town for both the Easter and Anzac Day long weekends.
“We will have an additional focus on the Oxley Highway as well as other major arterials,” he said.
“We will have an introduction of random drug testing as well which was ramped up towards the end of last year, and that is another thing that will be continuing this long weekend.”
Sergeant Dilley said police expect Easter to be the same this year as it is every year – busy.
“People will be travelling to spend time with family in Port Macquarie and surrounds,” he said.
“We are urging everyone to plan their trip and arrive at their destination safely.
“The speed and alcohol factors, the distraction of mobile phones and people not wearing a seatbelt are the major offences.
“It is all about keeping those in the car and those around them safe.”
Constable Steve Cherry wants people to plan ahead and ensure they stop every two hours or sooner to rest.
“Make sure people travelling plan their trip. Make sure when you stop for a rest you lock your vehicle when no one is with it,” he said.
“Slow and steady wins the race. It is better to be five minutes late than dead on time.
“Stick to the speed limits and drive to the conditions of the road. Don't be tempted to use your mobile phone whilst driving unless it is blue toothed and in an approved car carrier.”
The demerit point system provides an incentive for drivers to improve their driving behaviour, obey road rules and comply with NSW traffic laws.
The double demerit point scheme applies for the following types of offences: speeding, illegal use of mobile phones, not wearing a seatbelt and riding without a helmet.
Double demerit periods were introduced in 1997 in NSW. By law, double demerit periods must be advertised and awareness campaigns are coordinated with traditional enforcement and increased police numbers.
It is hoped that people will heed the warnings and slow down, buckle up and put their mobile phones away while driving.
Matt Attard
I was raised in Port Macquarie and consider myself a true Port local. I'm a die-hard rugby league fan and don't mind taking a photo or two. I'd love to hear from you, so please contact me at any time.
I was raised in Port Macquarie and consider myself a true Port local. I'm a die-hard rugby league fan and don't mind taking a photo or two. I'd love to hear from you, so please contact me at any time.
