In the lead-up to the busiest time of year on the State’s roads, Tweed motorists are being urged to re-think their on-road behaviour with Operation Safe Arrival kicking off from 12.01am Friday 21st December 2018.
Member for Tweed Geoff Provest said motorists are continuing to take risks, despite some of the longest and most intense high-visibility police operations NSW has ever seen.
“At a time when most of us look forward to enjoying time with friends and family, we must also prioritise safety, be vigilant, follow the road rules and always drive to the conditions,” Mr Provest said.
“While police don’t want to have to charge people, if you choose to put yourself or others at risk by breaking the road rules or being reckless, they will ensure you face the penalties.”
Minister for Roads, Maritime and Freight Melinda Pavey said while November had the lowest road toll recorded on record (since 1936) it’s important not to become complacent, both drivers and passengers have a part to play in making sure everyone has a ‘Safe Arrival’ at their destination.
“If you’re on the roads this holiday season, I encourage everyone to be their best self behind the wheel, whether you’re driving in the city or travelling in the country, so you can return home to loved ones,” Mrs Pavey said
Minister for Police Troy Grant said officers will be out in force across the same roads that you will be travelling on this Christmas.
“There will be more police tackling risky behaviour on our roads this Christmas so the message to motorists is clear – you’re responsible for your own actions so don’t do anything that puts you or your family at risk,” Mr Grant said.
Operation Safe Arrival starts on Friday 21 December 2018 and concludes on Tuesday 1 January 2019.
Double demerits will be in force throughout the period for speeding, seatbelt, 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 from 17 September 2018, 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.