Double Demerits in NSW: Seriously? Again?
Okay, so Easter and Anzac Day are coming up, which usually means long weekends, family gatherings, and… double demerits in NSW. Yep, you heard that right. From Thursday, April 17th to Monday, April 21st, and then again from Thursday, April 24th to Sunday, April 27th, the police are cracking down. This means double the demerit points for certain driving offences. Let's break it down.
What's Gonna Cost You Double
We’re talking the usual suspects here: speeding, not wearing your seatbelt (seriously, people, buckle up!), using your phone while driving (put it away!), and riding a motorbike without a helmet. It's the same old list, but with a much stingier sting. Why? Because the number of road deaths in NSW this year – 103 already! – is seriously alarming. This isn't a drill, folks.
Ouch! The Penalty Points Pain
So, what’s the big deal about double demerits? Well, it’s exactly what it sounds like: double the demerit points for any of the offences I just mentioned. A speeding ticket that normally costs you three points? Now it’s six. Think of it like this: it’s like getting two speeding tickets at once, which really sucks. The fines themselves don't double, but those points really add up, and they can lead to license suspension if you're already pushing your luck.
For example, not wearing your seatbelt – a $410 fine and three points – becomes a $410 fine and six points. Ouch. That extra hit to your license is what’s intended to scare us into being more careful.
Why the Stricter Rules?
The NSW government isn't just making this up. The recent spike in road deaths, especially during long weekends, is the real reason for this crackdown. With loads more people on the roads during Easter and Anzac Day, they're trying to prevent a potential catastrophe. They're focusing on the infamous "Fatal Five": speeding, drink/drug driving, fatigue, distraction, and not wearing seatbelts. And yes, we’ve seen a huge increase in speeding and phone use this year; hence the extra pressure. It's all about preventing more tragedies.
Drive Safe, Folks!
With a higher police presence on the roads, it’s not the time to test your luck. Seriously, this isn’t a game. Let’s all make a conscious effort to drive safely and responsibly. Remember the basics: stick to the speed limit, buckle up, keep your phone in your pocket, and never drive impaired. Plan your trips, take breaks when you need them, and be mindful of other drivers. Let's make this a safe holiday for everyone.
