Vehicle drivers are being urged to take extra care on the roads, with double demerits now in effect ahead of tomorrow’s public holiday (21 September), the National Day of Mourning for Her Majesty the Queen, and school holidays commencing on Saturday.
Deputy Secretary for Safety, Environment and Regulation at Transport for NSW, Tara McCarthy said double demerit points would be in effect until 11:59pm on Sunday.
“Although this is a sombre occasion, there is still likely to be more people out on the roads over the next few days and over the weekend with the school term ending on Friday, so it is important we all take extra care,” Ms McCarthy said.
“The last thing we want to see over this period is an increase in road trauma, which is why double-demerits will be in place like they would for any other public holiday to deter people from doing the wrong thing and putting lives at risk,” she said.
“Drivers are reminded that this period includes some school days and it is especially important to slow down and take care in school zones at school times – even if you cannot see children near the road.”
Backing the call for caution, NSW Police said additional officers would be deployed across the State to target speeding, seatbelt, mobile phone and motorcycle helmet offences, as well as other high-risk driver behaviour, including drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving.
Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner Brett McFadden said police were expecting roads to be busy over the coming days with people taking advantage of the public holiday.
“As always, our focus remains the safety of the community across the state, and we want everyone to reach their destinations safely and without tragedy,” Assistant Commissioner McFadden said.
“Our message is to take your time, drive to the weather conditions and respect other road users,” he said.
