Bring Your A-Game and slow down while driving or riding is the message to those travelling through and around NSW during the Labor Day long weekend and NSW school holidays.
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Operation Slow Down, the long weekend road safety enforcement operation, has already begun at 12.01am on Friday September 28 and will conclude at 11.59pm on Monday October 1.
Double demerits will be in force throughout the period for speeding, seat belt, mobile phone and motorcycle helmet offences. As Friday is a designated school day, an additional demerit point on top of double demerits will also apply to all relevant school zone offences committed on that day.
Motorists are also being reminded that, since September 17, an extra demerit point was added to the penalty for illegally using a mobile phone while driving. This will add an additional two demerit points in double demerit periods resulting in a total of 10 demerit points for this offence.
During the 2017 Operation Slow Down period, three lives were lost in two fatal crashes on NSW roads. Both crashes occurred on rural roads
Traffic and Highway Patrol Command’s Assistant Commissioner Michael Corboy said along with the start of the school holidays, people were also embarking on long-haul drives to the Grand Final and other events.
“Just as all teams involved in the NRL and AFL Grand Finals are bringing their A-game, we want people to bring their A-game and plan ahead before they even get into their vehicles. That means not driving while you are tired, remembering to take breaks, not driving too fast for the conditions and not driving if you have consumed any drugs and/or alcohol.
“This weekend is all about getting from A to B and ensuring everyone can make it back home, not sacrificing safety in moments of possible impatience while driving.”
Minister for Police Troy Grant said this October long weekend marked the start of the school holidays, and many families would undoubtedly hit the road for a break with their kids.
“I want everyone to enjoy themselves and have a terrific time, but more importantly, I want them to arrive at their destination safe and sound,” Mr Grant said.
“One road fatality is one too many, so I urge people to stick to the speed limit, put their phone down, and observe the road rules.”
