DOUBLE demerit points are now in force for speeding, seatbelt and helmet offences across the Australia Day long weekend.
DOUBLE demerit points are now in force for speeding, seatbelt and helmet offences across the Australia Day long weekend.
Motorists will face double demerits for these offences from midnight Thursday 24 January until midnight Monday 28 January.
A Roads and Maritime (RMS) spokesperson said double demerits help deter motorists from breaking the law during holiday periods.
"NSW Police will also be carrying out Operation Safe Return between 26 and 29 January," the spokesperson said.
"With more police on the road and double demerits in force, motorists will need to take even more care and drive within the speed limit, use seatbelts and ensure children are in a child restraint.
Key double demerit points which will be in force for full licence holders are:
- Exceed speed limit by not more than 10km/h - 2 points
- Exceed speed limit by 11-20km/h - 6 points
- Exceed speed limit by 21-30km/h - 8 points
- Exceed speed limit by 31-45km/h - 10 points and licence suspension
- Exceed speed limit by more than 45km/h - 12 points and licence suspension
- Driver not wearing own seatbelt - 6 points
- Driver with passengers not wearing seatbelt - minimum 6 points
- Rider on a motorcycle without own helmet - 6 points
- Rider with a passenger on a motorcycle not wearing a helmet - minimum 6 points
"P plate drivers especially need to maintain their vigilance on the road as they face tougher penalties and a higher risk of losing their licence if they break the law during the double demerit period," the spokesperson said.
An advertising campaign reminding motorists of the risk they face is running through the double demerit period.
Motorists can prepare for their journey by checking traffic conditions with the Transport Management Centre on 132 701 or at www.livetraffic.com