SWAN Hill police are cracking down on dangerous and speeding drivers this weekend, anticipating a swell of road users between Australia Day and the start of the school year.
As part of Operation Amity, Victoria Police will hit the roads in an effort to keep motorists safe and reduce the incidence of road trauma.
During last year’s operation, six people died on Victorian roads and police want to ensure that motorists don’t end up as another number on the road toll.
Road policing Assistant Commissioner Glenn Weir said the Australia Day long weekend was a busy time for motorists and police.
“For many of us, this marks the last weekend of the January holiday period before work and school goes back next week.
“It’s going to be busy, so take it easy, be courteous to other road users, and most importantly, allow extra travel time so you aren’t speeding to reach your destination.
“Not only is speeding the most common factor in fatal and serious-injury collisions, but it continues to be the penalty we issue the most infringements for – and it’s completely avoidable.”
Police will be highly visible across all areas of Victoria and will be working to ensure dangerous drivers are taken off the roads.
“We’ll be focusing on the major roads and highways between Melbourne the regional parts of the state where we know lots of people will be commuting,” Mr Weir said.
“We’ll be setting up numerous drug and alcohol testing sites across the state, and while this might slow you down on your travels, we make no apologies for this.
“We need to keep all road users accountable, and we won’t hesitate to penalise you if you’re caught breaking the road rules this weekend.”
Victoria is one of three Australian states that doesn’t impose double-demerit points over any period.
Motorists travelling in New South Wales, however, will be on the hook for double demerits for speeding, seatbelt and mobile phone offences.
These penalties came into effect Thursday morning and will carry through until midnight Sunday.
