Media Release - Double Demerits for Easter and ANZAC Holiday Period

Double demerit points will be in force again over the Easter and Anzac holiday period to improve safety on roads across the state.

Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils' Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Belinda Coe, said the double demerit point period for the Easter holiday would commence on Thursday 18 April and conclude on Monday 22 April whilst the Anzac holiday period would commence Wednesday 24 April and conclude on Sunday 28 April (inclusive).

"Double demerit points will apply to all speeding, seatbelt, mobile phone and motorcycle helmet offences this Easter and Anzac holiday period.  NSW Police will also be targeting dangerous driving behaviours such as drink driving and driver fatigue.

So far in 2019, 20 people have lost their lives on the roads in the Western Region, including 19 crashes.

Police are emphasising that driving over the speed limit to save a couple of minutes, pushing on driving when you are tired, using your mobile phone whilst behind the wheel and driving after a few drinks isn't worth the risk of not arriving at all.

Central West Police District Inspector Shane Jessep is encouraging all road users to pay attention to road conditions and allow plenty of travel time.

“With Easter and Anzac Day holidays so close together this year, we will see more cars on the road, so allow extra travel time and don’t let impatience push you into taking risks. Fatigue is another factor that greatly increases your risk of being involved in a crash, so please take plenty of breaks on your trip.”

"Drive to the conditions, stick to the speed limit, get plenty of rest and do not risk driving when you are affected by alcohol or drugs. We want everyone to get to their destination safely this holiday period,” Inspector Jessep said.

"I ask all drivers to remain vigilant over the holiday period.  We all have a part to play in reducing the amount of crashes and risks. When planning family and other social events please consider the safety principles. Remember to slow down, schedule plenty of breaks during your trip, limit distractions in the car, don’t drink and drive and ensure all your passengers are wearing their seatbelts," Mrs Coe said.

For further information please contact Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils’ Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Belinda Coe, on (02) 6861 2364.