For Riverina drivers, Christmas double demerits have started off with the holiday season. Certain offences result in the doubling of demerit points on driving licenses. Among those offences are speeding, using a mobile phone while driving, not wearing a seatbelt, and drinking or drug-related driving.
The authorities introduced the measure during the travel periods considered the most dangerous. Christmas time has always been a reason for heavy traffic on regional highways. The police department’s main objective with the measure is to deter rather than punish. They want the drivers to reconsider their risky behaviour. The policy is directed at the types of conduct that are the most frequent causes of serious accidents and deaths.
Importantly, double demerits do not mean higher financial penalties for the offences concerned. It is only the points that go to the driving license that are doubled during the enforcement periods. The system is in effect in New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory, and Western Australia. Other states have different, less intrusive methods of ensuring road safety.
Riverina drivers face doubled demerit points this Christmas.
How Serious Is The Road Toll In The Riverina?
This year, road fatalities continue to be a major issue on the roads in the Riverina area. So far, police have reported a total of seven deaths in the region. They say that every death leaves a mark not only on the family but also on the community.
Many of the accidents involve factors that could easily be eliminated, such as speeding or driver distraction. Long distances and tiredness make rural roads much riskier often. The police reiterate that what might be just a tiny error on the road can result in death very quickly.
The Christmas season is particularly dangerous as the drivers are in a hurry to reach their destinations. Law enforcement is vital, according to the authorities, during periods of increased road traffic. They are determined not to let the Christmas toll rise anymore.
Are Drivers Ready For Peak Holiday Travel?
Traffic volumes are expected to increase considerably across the different routes of the Riverina region. Besides, the main highways would be the roads for vacationers, freight trucks, and residents coming back.
The police ask people not to neglect the preventive maintenance of their cars before they travel. At the same time, drivers are advised to take rest breaks, and if possible, to pair up for the driving. According to statistics, fatigue is one of the main causes of road accidents during holidays.
Authorities also ask for the practicing of patience during such times. They also warn that aggressive driving escalates the risk involved very quickly. Officials mention that not being negligent can help drivers recover their demerit points over time. They also want the motorists to consider safety as a responsibility for the long term.
Police Increase Patrols Across Regional Highways
NSW Police have augmented patrols all over the Riverina region. Both highway and regular officers will be checking vehicles at the roadside, conducting such checks frequently. The enforcement is mainly concerned with speeding, talking on mobiles and drunken driving.
Police believe that being visible is the main factor in altering the behaviour. They want drivers to think about enforcement being everywhere and all the time. Random tests for alcohol consumption and drug detection will be carried out more often.
The police claim that it is compliance, not revenue, that remains the priority. The police emphasise that every single driver can control the outcome of his/her safety situation. Besides, they warn motorists to be careful and to obey the traffic rules.
NSW Police boost Riverina patrols targeting speed, mobiles, and drink-driving.
Do Double Demerits Actually Change Driver Behaviour?
The authorities are of the opinion that double demerits discourage people from taking risks when driving during the busiest times. The fear of losing one’s driving license could be a strong reason for not committing offences.
But the experts are divided on the issue, as some are of the opinion that penalties alone are not enough, while others point out that long-term education and infrastructure improvements are equally important. The better the design of roads and the more consistent the law enforcement is, the better the results throughout the year.
Supporters say that the holiday enforcement targets the most dangerous travel periods. However, critics imply that the implementation of wider reforms will result in changing the driving culture in the long run. The arguments have not ceased being exchanged among policymakers and safety advocates.
Community Voices Urge Responsible Driving This Christmas
Members of the Riverina community have spoken in unison with police safety announcements. Many of the people living in the area are somehow connected by blood or friendship to the victims of road accidents.
The families that lost their dear ones are asking the drivers to think of their loved ones waiting for them at home. Some of the drivers are in favour of harsher punishments as a deterrent. Others are asking for better road signs and more picnic areas where tired drivers can rest.
Community organisations are still reminding people about safety through their local networks. The common message is very simple and urgent. Every safe action taken during this Christmas period will help save lives.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What offences attract Christmas double demerits?
Double points are imposed for speeding, mobile phone use, seatbelt breaches, and some drink or drug driving offences.
Q2: Do double demerits increase fines?
Only demerit points double while fine amounts remain unchanged; hence, the answer is no.
Q3: Which states use double demerits?
During holiday seasons, double demerits are imposed in New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory, and Western Australia.
Q4: Why is Christmas considered high risk on roads?
More cars on the roads, more tired drivers, and the pressure of travelling often lead to unsafe driving.
