Pictured is Sergeant Mitchell Gage who wants to send a clear message to drivers over the long weekend.
Motorists across the Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Council areas are being reminded to drive safely over the King’s Birthday long weekend as double demerit points come into force.
Double demerits will be in operation from Friday 6 June until Monday 9 June (inclusive) for all speeding, mobile phone, seatbelt and motorcycle helmet offences.
School zones are in operation on Friday 6 June and additional penalties can apply for certain offences committed in school zones.
Parkes Highway Patrol Sergeant Mitchell Gage has indicated that Police will also be targeting the “four Ds” of road users including drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving.
“Around 95% 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.
“Too often we see the tragic aftermath of drivers making poor decisions. We want everyone to make it to and from their destinations safely this long weekend.
“There will be more Police on the road which means a greater chance of drivers being caught if they are doing the wrong thing” Sergeant Gage said.
Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils’ Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor, said that drivers should make sure that they are fit to drive before getting behind the wheel, and that they are focused on the driving task whilst on the road and that their vehicle is in good working condition.