2LT Local News

BATHURST, Central West, NSW, Australia – Roads across New South Wales will be heavily patrolled this weekend as police are determined to crack down on what they describe as the four ‘Ds’ – Drink, Drug, Dangerous and Distracted. driving.

The increased patrols for the Queen’s Birthday holiday weekend will commence at midnight on Friday, and carry on through until midnight on Monday.

Double demerit points will be in force for speeding, mobile phone, seatbelt, and motorcycle/helmet offences.

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, and Member for Bathurst Paul Toole on Thursday urged people not start their holiday on the wrong note by doing the wrong thing on ‘our roads.’

“We know a lot of people will be heading out to regional NSW this long weekend, so I’m reminding drivers travelling long distances to stop for a break along the way to avoid fatigue, stick to the speed limit, obey the road rules and drive to the conditions,” Mr Toole said.

“The largest proportion of fatigue-related crashes occur between 2:00pm and 5:00pm, so plan ahead before you hit the road and allow extra travel time.”

Operation Commander Superintendent Stephen Hegarty said Thursday police are expecting roads to be busy with people travelling across NSW for the long weekend.

“Our message is to be patient and obey the road rules in all conditions,” he said.

“There will be a number of cars on the road as people travel up and down the coast and inland, so we’re asking everyone to be extra careful. Slow down and drive to the conditions.”

“We want everyone to reach their destinations safely and to enjoy the long weekend without tragedy,” the operation commander said.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David Elliott said there is no excuse for any behaviour which endangers the lives of others.

“We want everyone to enjoy the Queen’s Birthday long weekend, but I urge you to do so safely. We do not want any fatalities on our roads,” he said.

“There is no excuse, when you flout the law you put the lives of others at risk. Celebrate safely, abide by the road rules and do not drink and drive.”

Minister for Transport and Roads, Andrew Constance MP, said just five kilometres over the speed limit can make a big difference when it comes to stopping in time and not stopping at all.

“For everyone out on the road this long weekend, whether you are travelling far from home or just around the corner, stick to the speed limit and drive safely to keep yourself and others safe,” Mr Constance said.

“It is great that we have already seen the number of speeding-related fatalities come down in the past five months, compared to the last three-year average, but we really need more people to think about their choices behind the wheel because you can be caught anywhere, anytime,” he said,