NEW England Highway Patrol officers are urging drivers to think this holiday period, with more than 470 driving infringements issued last year.
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They will not be taking leave this Christmas and a full taskforce has been assembled to watch over our roads, Highway Patrol supervisor sergeant David Bramble said.
“Operation Safe Arrival will be effect from December 18 to January 3,” Sergeant Bramble said.
“Last year during the operation, police issued 29 infringements for not wearing a seatbelt, 254 drivers were charged with speeding and 199 other infringements for other varying traffic issues.”
Operation Safe Arrival is part of an annual state-wide initiative to encourage safe and responsible driving during the silly season.
The Highway Patrol supervisor said drivers would also be under the double demerits scheme from midnight on December 23 to January 3.
“We will be targeting speeding, seat belt and mobile phone related offences this holiday period,” Sergeant Bramble.
“With the new legislation and double demerits, drivers who are caught using their mobile phone will lose six points off their licence.”
New England Highway Patrol conducted more than 9600 random breath tests on drivers over the
holiday period last year and
Sergeant Bramble said this year would be no different with the number of patrols.
“We are encouraging drivers to take extra care this Christmas period,” Sergeant Bramble said.
“Drivers should be giving give themselves time to get to their destination, making sure they and all their passengers are wearing a seatbelt and if they are going to drink, have a ‘Plan B’ in place.”
Community members with concerns or questions can contact New England Highway Patrol on 6771
0656.
