Monday, 27 March 2017

Member for Davidson Jonathan O’Dea is urging motorists to make every journey a safe one this Easter in a bid to drive the road toll down Towards Zero on local roads.

Of the total 384 lives lost on NSW roads last year, 109 were from the Sydney region. This was down on 2015 when we saw 110 people killed and 6,390 people seriously injured in the Sydney region.

 “Last year’s 2016 Easter road toll saw two fatalities on NSW roads and this year our goal is zero.

“Sadly, many of us have or will at some stage in our lives, experience the devastating effects of road trauma. Easter is a time when more people than usual are using the roads and we must endeavour to stay safe,” Jonathan O’Dea said.

The NSW Government has also announced that in addition to targeted police enforcement to deter dangerous behaviour such as speed, drink-driving and non-seat belt use, people can expect to see more education and awareness campaigns in high-risk locations over the Easter break.

“If you’re having a few drinks, it’s important to have a Plan B to get home safely and remember that fatigue can strike at any time. In fact, being awake for 17 hours has a similar effect on your performance and reaction time as a blood alcohol content above the legal limit. So if you’re feeling tired pull over and take a break,” Mr O’Dea concluded.

Double demerits will be in force this Easter from midnight Wednesday, 12 April to midnight Monday, 17 April and again for the holiday period from midnight Thursday, 20 April to midnight Tuesday, 25 April.

Drivers are encouraged to stay informed and visit www.livetraffic.com for the latest NSW road conditions.