Avoid costly driving mistakes: Learn when and where double demerit points hit this Easter weekend!
- Replies 26
Easter is a time for family gatherings, indulging in chocolate eggs, and enjoying the autumnal weather.
However, for Australian drivers, it's also a period of heightened vigilance on the roads, as double demerit points come into effect in several states and territories.
This system aims to encourage safer driving when many travel to visit loved ones or take holiday trips.
As motorists gear up to embark on their journeys and fuel their vehicles in unprecedented numbers, it's crucial to stay informed about which states and territories will enforce double demerits.
Read on to learn about the commencement dates, specific infractions under scrutiny, and other information to avoid a bad record and hefty fines.
In New South Wales, the double demerit period will span five consecutive days, starting from Thursday, March 28, and running through to Monday, April 1.
During this time, offences such as speeding, illegal use of mobile phones, not wearing a seat belt, and riding without a motorcycle helmet will incur twice the usual number of demerit points.
The NSW government is taking a particularly strong stance against mobile phone use while driving, with Mobile Phone Detection Cameras actively monitoring for violations. If caught, drivers face a hefty $352 fine and ten demerit points.
The National Roads and Motorists' Association Limited (NRMA) also reminded drivers that school zones will be operational on Thursday, March 28, and additional penalties will apply for offences within these zones.
For instance, sending a text while driving through a school zone could result in a $469 fine.
Western Australia is also enforcing double demerits from March 28 to April 1, targeting a range of offences, including speeding, drunk or drug driving, failing to wear a seatbelt and child restraint, running a red light, and illegal use of a mobile phone.
The state is particularly focused on deterring drivers from using devices designed to evade speed cameras, with a significant 14-demerit point penalty for the offence during the Easter period.
The Australian Capital Territory also has double demerits applying from the start of Thursday to the end of Monday.
The ACT's recent road fatality involving a cyclist underscores the importance of drivers adhering to road safety laws.
Queensland is taking a different approach, with double demerits reserved for repeat offenders who commit a second road offence within a year of the first.
This system is in place all year round, not just during holiday periods.
For those in Victoria, South Australia, Northern Territory, and Tasmania, the double demerit point system does not apply.
However, police presence will be increased to ensure road safety during the busy holiday weekend.
As discussions about the implementation of double demerits and the associated penalties for driving offences intensify, it's essential to consider the broader spectrum of traffic regulations that drivers, particularly seniors, need to be mindful of.
While the focus may currently be on heightened enforcement measures during specific periods, such as holidays or long weekends, it's equally important to address the day-to-day behaviours behind the wheel that can result in significant fines and penalties.
As attention is drawn to the imminent rollout of double demerits, it serves as a timely reminder for drivers of all ages to stay informed and vigilant about their driving habits year-round.
Have you had experiences with the double demerit system? Do you have any safe driving tips to share with fellow members this Easter? Drop us a comment below.
However, for Australian drivers, it's also a period of heightened vigilance on the roads, as double demerit points come into effect in several states and territories.
This system aims to encourage safer driving when many travel to visit loved ones or take holiday trips.
As motorists gear up to embark on their journeys and fuel their vehicles in unprecedented numbers, it's crucial to stay informed about which states and territories will enforce double demerits.
Read on to learn about the commencement dates, specific infractions under scrutiny, and other information to avoid a bad record and hefty fines.
Double demerit points will be in effect for various traffic offences during the Easter long weekend in some Australian states. Credits: Shutterstock
In New South Wales, the double demerit period will span five consecutive days, starting from Thursday, March 28, and running through to Monday, April 1.
During this time, offences such as speeding, illegal use of mobile phones, not wearing a seat belt, and riding without a motorcycle helmet will incur twice the usual number of demerit points.
The NSW government is taking a particularly strong stance against mobile phone use while driving, with Mobile Phone Detection Cameras actively monitoring for violations. If caught, drivers face a hefty $352 fine and ten demerit points.
The National Roads and Motorists' Association Limited (NRMA) also reminded drivers that school zones will be operational on Thursday, March 28, and additional penalties will apply for offences within these zones.
For instance, sending a text while driving through a school zone could result in a $469 fine.
Western Australia is also enforcing double demerits from March 28 to April 1, targeting a range of offences, including speeding, drunk or drug driving, failing to wear a seatbelt and child restraint, running a red light, and illegal use of a mobile phone.
The state is particularly focused on deterring drivers from using devices designed to evade speed cameras, with a significant 14-demerit point penalty for the offence during the Easter period.
The Australian Capital Territory also has double demerits applying from the start of Thursday to the end of Monday.
The ACT's recent road fatality involving a cyclist underscores the importance of drivers adhering to road safety laws.
Queensland is taking a different approach, with double demerits reserved for repeat offenders who commit a second road offence within a year of the first.
This system is in place all year round, not just during holiday periods.
For those in Victoria, South Australia, Northern Territory, and Tasmania, the double demerit point system does not apply.
However, police presence will be increased to ensure road safety during the busy holiday weekend.
As discussions about the implementation of double demerits and the associated penalties for driving offences intensify, it's essential to consider the broader spectrum of traffic regulations that drivers, particularly seniors, need to be mindful of.
While the focus may currently be on heightened enforcement measures during specific periods, such as holidays or long weekends, it's equally important to address the day-to-day behaviours behind the wheel that can result in significant fines and penalties.
As attention is drawn to the imminent rollout of double demerits, it serves as a timely reminder for drivers of all ages to stay informed and vigilant about their driving habits year-round.
.png){kind=icon}
