TO December 27, there has been 336 lives lost in road accidents in New South Wales, and to the end of November, 1318 road fatalities nationally – already higher that the 1266 total for 2023.

Police this holiday period are targeting dangerous driving as part of the state’s end-of-year road operation designed to keep people safe on the roads during the busy festive season.

Operation Christmas-New Year 2024 commenced at 12.01am, December 20 and will conclude at 11.59pm, Wednesday, January 1, 2025.

Double demerit points will apply for the duration of the operation for speeding, mobile phone, seatbelt, and motorcycle helmet offences.

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley urges everyone to play their part and stay safe on the roads this holiday season.

“This is such a special time of year – a chance to celebrate with family and friends but it’s also one of the most dangerous times to be on the road,” Ms Catley said.

“Some people think it’s okay to check a text, speed on familiar roads, or drive tired, but road rules exist to keep everyone safe. While police will be out and about patrolling this holiday season, it’s up to all of us to take responsibility – and if you do the wrong thing, you can expect to see red and blue lights in your rear-view mirror.

“You don’t want to get a fine in the mail or lose your licence, but even worse, you don’t want to be the reason someone misses out on celebrating with their loved ones this Christmas.”

Traffic and Highway Patrol Command officers, together with local police across New South Wales, will be enforcing all road-related legislation, including speeding, drink and drug driving, distractions, driver fatigue, and any dangerous driving behaviours which put the safety of road users at risk.

Traffic and Highway Patrol commander, acting assistant commissioner, Tracy Chapman, said the holiday period is traditionally the busiest time of year on New South Wales roads and police will be out in force across the state to encourage compliance with the road rules.

“Sadly, we have seen an increase of fatal crashes on our roads in recent weeks, which is devastating to families, friends and whole communities,” Ms Chapman said.

“Our traffic enforcement activities seek to ensure all road users get to their destinations safely, and I urge people to consider the potential impacts of irresponsible behaviour – which can change lives forever.”

To help plan trips anywhere in NSW, up-to-the minute traffic conditions can be found at: https://www.livetraffic.com

Members of the public are urged to report motorists engaged in dangerous driving to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Anyone with information about unsafe or dangerous behaviour on New South Wales roads is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au

Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Media Release