All drivers are being reminded of their responsibility behind the wheel this holiday season after ten people were killed on one of the worst weekends on NSW roads in decades.
NSW Police has commenced its enforcement operation with Traffic and Highway Patrol Command officers working with local police across the state to stop drink and drug driving, distractions, driving tired, and dangerous driving behaviour in the lead up to Christmas.
Nationals Shadow Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway is urging every NSW resident and tourist to take care as they travel.
“The summer holidays are a time when people, especially in the regions, are driving long distances, whether they are getting away, or returning home to spend time with their family and friends,” Mr Farraway said.
“It is important to make sure you take your time with your journey and travel in the safest way possible by following the road rules that are there to keep our communities safe.
“You need to make sure you take responsibility for yourself, your family, your passengers and every other road user each time you jump into the driver’s seat.”
The NSW road toll for 2023 currently stands at 349, which is 79 more than the same time last year.
Nationals Shadow Minister for Police Paul Toole said he wants everyone to arrive safely for their festivities this year.
“Unfortunately, some people still think they are above the law, whether it’s quickly checking a text, driving too fast on a familiar road, or driving when tired”, Mr Toole said.
“The most important gift you can give this year is being responsible. Be the motorist who obeys the road rules and drives to the conditions, not the motorist who drives recklessly and kills someone.
“While police will be out in force, please remember that road safety is everyone’s responsibility and you don’t want to lose your licence, or worse, you don’t want to be the reason someone can’t celebrate with their loved ones.”
The NSW Nationals are encouraging all drivers to always have a Plan B in place before your first drink, and never drink or drug drive.
If you are getting behind the wheel – even if it’s a short trip – never drive if you’re tired.
Buckle up, stay under the speed limit, and put the phone away.
To help plan your trip anywhere in NSW, traffic conditions can be found at: www.livetraffic.com
