Double Demerits For King’s Birthday Long Weekend

Shadow Minister for Police Paul Toole and the NSW Police force have advised motorists that double demerits will be in force for the King’s birthday long weekend.

Double demerits began this morning, June 7 at 12:01 am and will end at 11:59 pm on Monday, June 10.

Higher fines and double demerit points will apply for those offences committed such as speeding, not wearing a seatbelt, driving under the influence or use a mobile phone illegally.

Mr Toole said the road toll on NSW roads was alarming.

“2023 ended with a shocking road toll that labelled 2023 one of the deadliest years on NSW roads and 2024 is looking no better,” Mr Toole said.

“Already we are at 26 deaths higher than this time last year.

“Many people will be travelling across NSW to enjoy the long weekend.

“No matter your plans, there is no excuse for risky driving behaviour because at the end of the day it is our family, friends and communities who suffer the most from these tragedies.

“The biggest killers of speeding, driving inhibited, driving fatigued, not wearing a seat belt and being distracted - are choices that an individual makes and can all be avoided.

“Every time you get behind the wheel of a car, 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.

NSW Police Inspector Peter Foran said road safety was everyone’s responsibility.

“One death on our roads is one death too many, NSW police are doing everything we can to keep road users safe but the key to reducing accidents lies in taking responsibility for yourself, your family, your passengers, and every other road user,” Inspector Foran said.

“Whether it be doing a few kilometres over the speed limit or glancing at a mobile phone, each and every driver needs to think about the consequences these simple mistakes can have.”

Speeding, fatigue, and drink and drug driving remain the biggest killers on NSW roads and the NSW Police Force will be out in numbers ensuring that if you do the wrong thing, you will be caught.

• Topics:

• Road Safety