Residents are being reminded to drive safely over the King's Birthday long weekend as double demerit points come into force from Friday 5 June until Monday 8 June (inclusive) for all speeding, mobile phone, seatbelt and motorcycle helmet offences. Police will be out in force across the region with not only Highway Patrol doing the heavy lifting, but all police vehicles will also be on the look out for dangerous behaviour on the roads. Police will also be targeting the 'four Ds' of road users including drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving. NSW Police said around 95 percent of crashes in NSW are the result of behaviour - like driving too fast for the conditions, falling asleep behind the wheel or being impaired by drugs and/or alcohol. Drivers are warned that they should ensure that they are well rested and not under the influence of drugs or alcohol before they get behind the wheel. While driving, focus on driving and don't allow yourself to be distracted by your mobile phone, follow the road rules and drive at a speed suitable to conditions. There is also an emphasis on making sure that both the driver and passengers are buckled up. Inspector Chris Wallace, commander of the Temora sector, has also warned about being aware of wildlife on the roads when driving at night, during the early hours of the morning and as dusk approaches. “Wildlife can be unpredictable and it is important that motorists be aware of the road and road conditions at all times,” Insp Wallace said. “Driving distracted, impaired or fatigued can have disastrous consequences. “Local police will be paying close attention to road safety over the long weekend period.”
