It is traditionally a busy day on the roads with families heading away on holidays or coming back from Chistmas celebrations. Last year seven of the 17 people killed on NSW roads died on Boxing Day and police are desperate to avoid a repeat of last year's carnage.

They are urging motorists to ensure their car is roadworthy before setting out on any trip, to take regular breaks, ensure all passengers are buckled up, drive to the weather and traffic conditions, stick to the speed limit and avoid alcohol.

NSW Police Force's Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner John Hartley, asked motorists to be patient on the roads to ensure they get to their destination safely.

"Seven families had their lives turned upside down last year when loved-ones failed to return home after being involved in crashes.

"The tragedy for those families, particularly during this Christmas period, would have been immense and we will do all we can to avoid a repeat of this.

"With people leaving for holiday destinations on Boxing Day, there will be more traffic on the roads and families keen to take advantage of the public holidays and summer weather - all we are asking is they do so safely," Assistant Commissioner Hartley said.

Highway Patrol Officers have recorded some concerning examples of driver behaviour which risked the lives of those drivers, their passengers, and other road users.

At West Wyalong, high patrol had a scare when a four-wheel drive drove directly towards them as it overtook cars on a single lane carriageway at West Wyalong.

There have been other examples of reckless driving including a motorcycle rider was recorded on camera riding at speeds up to 197km/h in a 100km/h zone along the Snowy Mountains Highway at Kiandra, while a small sedan was seen overtaking vehicles on the wrong side of the road as it travelled along the Central Coast Highway at Wyong. The vehicle forced oncoming traffic, including a Highway Patrol vehicle, off the road.

Operation Safe Arrival continues into the New Year with police out in force on NSW roads targeting irresponsible driver behaviour. Double demerits also remain in place until Wednesday 1 January 2014.