Motorists are being urged to slow down and take care when travelling this October long weekend.
Double demerits will be in force as police Operation Labour Day starts at 12:01 tomorrow morning, Friday October 4, and ends at 11:59pm on Monday, October 7.
Police will be targeting drink and drug driving, fatigue, mobile phone use, speeding, and seat belt and helmet offences.
Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Acting Assistant Commissioner David Driver, said the aim is to ensure all road users get to their destinations safely.
“We want everyone to enjoy their long weekend with their friends and family, so we are urging all motorists to plan and prepare for their trips, no matter how long they may be,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Driver said.
“I’m urging all road users to be responsible on the road and encourage passengers to call out driving behaviour that they are uncomfortable with, or if it is unlawful – it could save someone’s life, including your own.
Shadow Police Minister, Paul Toole, said safety is the number one priority.
“Every time you get behind the wheel of a car this long weekend, please think of those passengers in the car with you and other motorists on our roads so that everyone can reach their destination safely,” Mr Toole said.
“Already 254 lives have been lost on our roads in NSW this year, and what’s even worse is the majority of them are from regional and rural communities.
“No one wants to see this number rise over the long weekend. There is no excuse for speeding, drink driving or using a mobile whilst driving.
“Long weekends are for having fun with family, catching up with friends or taking a trip, it is not the time to be breaking road rules.
“I don’t know how many times we have to tell people to slow down, don’t drink and drive, put a seatbelt on and leave your mobile phone alone.”
