Slow Down as Police Blitz Begins for Long Weekend

Drivers on the Northern Beaches are being reminded to travel safely this long weekend as the NSW Police officially launch Operation Slow Down.

The annual road safety enforcement operation starts at 12.01am on Friday 4 October 2019 and concludes at 11.59pm on Monday 7 October 2019.

Double demerits will be in force throughout the period for speeding, seatbelt, mobile phone and motorcycle helmet offences.

Member for Manly James Griffin said five lives were lost in four fatal crashes on NSW roads during the 2018 Operation Slow Down period.

“The last thing anyone wants to see is a tragedy on our roads this long weekend,” Mr Griffin said.

Mr Griffin said long weekends are a much-celebrated opportunity to jump in the car with your loved ones and escape for a few days of fun, but everyone should be mindful and alert as they travel around the State.

“Fatigue continues to be one of the biggest killers on our roads, so if you’re travelling long distances be sure to stop and take regular rest breaks.

“Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, speeding, not wearing a seat belt or using a mobile phone could have devastating consequences – so don’t risk your life, or the lives of others, over something trivial.

“If you’re enjoying a drink with friends or family then don’t get behind the wheel. Have a ‘Plan B’ so you can make sure you and your loves ones get home safely.”

The NSW Police Traffic and Highway Patrol Command and Crash Investigation Unit will be out in force, with 1350 officers patrolling the state’s roads during the operation.

For more helpful road safety tips, visit: https://roadsafety.transport.nsw.gov.au/stayingsafe/index.html