In NSW, a long weekend brings with it double demerit points for speeding, mobile phone, seatbelt, and motorcycle helmet offences.

And while some cry foul, since their introduction in 1997, double demerit points have proven to be an effective deterrent to unsafe driving with casualty crashes (where someone is killed or injured) decreased by 30 per cent when double demerit points were in operation.

Data from Transport for NSW shows the state's road toll during holiday periods declined from 55 in 1997 – when the double demerit points system was introduced – to 22 in 2008. Since then, holiday fatalities have fluctuated from a high of 34 in 2017 to 18 in 2020.

During this King's Birthday long weekend, the double demerits system will be in operation from Friday June 9 until Monday, June 12 (inclusive).

Highway Patrol Sergeant Adam Cornish has indicated that Police will also be targeting the 'four Ds' of road users including drink, drug, dangerous, and distracted driving.

"Around 95 per cent of crashes in NSW are the result of behaviour - like driving too fast for the conditions, falling asleep behind the wheel, or being impaired by drugs and/or alcohol. Too often we see the tragic aftermath of drivers making poor decisions. We want everyone to make it to and from their destinations safely this long weekend. There will be more Police on the road which means a greater chance of drivers being caught if they are doing the wrong thing," Sergeant Cornish said.

Lachlan Shire Councils' Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor said drivers should make sure that they are fit to drive before getting behind the wheel, are focused on the driving task whilst on the road and that their vehicle is in good working condition.

"Drivers should ensure that they are well rested and not under the influence of drugs or alcohol before they get behind the wheel. While driving, focus on driving," Ms Suitor said. 

"Don't allow yourself to be distracted by your mobile phone, follow the road rules and drive at a speed suitable to conditions. Please make sure that you and your passengers are buckled up. Drivers should also check that their vehicle is ready for the journey too - check the brakes and tyres, check the levels of your engine oil, coolant, and windscreen washer reservoir, make sure all your lights and indicators are working, and ensure you have clear view."

In general, when driving interstate, drivers receive the penalty as it would apply in their home state. For example, a Victorian driver caught speeding in New South Wales over this long weekend will not have double demerit points applied to their licence.

But, of course, it's not about the points, it's about the safety of all road users so do the right thing this long weekend and stick to the road rules, for everyone's sake.