Highlights
- In NSW double-demerit points are applied for speeding, seatbelt, mobile phone and motorcycle helmet offences.
- Drivers can lose 10 points and cop a fine of $349 for the illegal use of mobile phones.
- Residents are urged to drive carefully as a large scale clean-up process is underway in flood-affected regional areas.
The NSW Police have launched a state-wide 'Easter operation' to target drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving.
The double demerits period began at 12.01am Thursday on April 1, and will run until 11.59pm Monday on April 5.
The double-demerit period for the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is the same as NSW.
Queensland's double-demerit system works all year round. Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania and the Northern Territory don't have this system.
The NSW Police has launched a state-wide operation and officers are targeting drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving. Source: Lisa Maree Williams/Getty Images
In NSW double-demerit points are applied for speeding, seatbelt, mobile phone, and motorcycle helmet offences.
Drivers in NSW can lose 10 points and get a fine of $349 for the illegal use of mobile phones.
Motorists can cop a fine of $3821 and lose 12 points if caught for speeding over 45 km/h.
Not wearing a seat belt will invite a fine of $349 and six demerit points in NSW.
NSW Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner Karen Webb, asked road users to be extra careful.
Double-demerit points are applied for speeding, seatbelt, mobile phone, and motorcycle helmet offences in NSW. Source: PETER PARKS/AFP via Getty Images
“With COVID19 restricting travel last Easter, we expect people to take full advantage of being able to holiday across NSW and interstate this year,” said Assistant Commissioner Webb.
“We want you to enjoy our beautiful state, but please drive carefully, particularly where roads may be unfamiliar.
“At the heart of our policing is always public safety. We want all of you to arrive at your destination and enjoy Easter with loved ones,” Mr Webb said.
NSW Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David Elliott, said double-demerit points are in force for a reason.
Minister for Transport and Roads, Andrew Constance said almost half of all fatalities on NSW roads last year involved excessive speeding. Source: WILLIAM WEST/AFP via Getty Images
“Many communities throughout the state are still dealing with the effects of devastating flooding and it is important nobody adds to the heartache,” Mr Elliott said.
NSW Minister for Transport and Roads, Andrew Constance, urged drivers to slow down this weekend and plan trips in advance.
“Almost half of all fatalities on our roads last year involved excessive speeding, and each one of those deaths was preventable,” Mr Constance said.
"Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to travel, don't speed, drive to the conditions, wear your seatbelt, avoid distractions, make sure you're well-rested, and if you've been drinking or have taken drugs, don't drive."
NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Paul Toole, asked people travelling regionally to drive to the conditions.
“A large-scale clean-up and recovery operation is underway around the state, but especially in regional NSW where many major roads remain closed or affected by flood damage.
