Operation Christmas/New Year 2022 will start at 12.01am on Friday, December 23 and will conclude on Monday, January 2 at 11.59pm.
Police will be enforcing all road-related legislation, with double demerit points applying for speeding, mobile phone use while driving, driver and/or passengers not wearing a seatbelt, and motorcycle helmet offences.
NSW Acting Premier and Minister for Police Paul Toole said everyone had a role to play on the roads to keep other road users safe.
“Unfortunately, some people still think they’re above the law, whether it’s quickly checking a text, driving too fast because the road is familiar, or getting behind the wheel when tired, but we have road rules for a reason because we want everyone to arrive safely at their destination this holiday period,” Mr Toole said.
“You don’t want to get a fine in the mail or lose your licence, but worse still, you don’t want to be the reason someone can’t celebrate with all their loved ones this Christmas, so I’m calling on drivers to do the right thing every time they get behind the wheel.”
Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander Assistant Commissioner Brett McFadden said the holiday period was traditionally the busiest time of year on NSW roads, which can potentially make it the most dangerous.
The NSW road toll for 2022 is currently sitting at 280, which is 16 more than the same time last year.
Head of Safety at Transport for NSW Peter Dunphy said they wanted everyone to make it to their destination safely, no matter where that destination may be.
He urged drivers to use common sense this holiday season and always have a Plan B in place before getting behind the wheel if you intend to have a drink.
To help plan your trip anywhere in NSW, minute by minute traffic conditions can be found by visiting https://www.livetraffic.com
Anyone wanting to report unsafe or dangerous behaviour on NSW roads is urged to phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au