Play it safe on the roads this weekend

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Police Minister Troy Grant have urged drivers to stay safe on the State’s roads this long weekend.

Ms Berejiklian said the October long weekend, falling in the school holidays, would see an increase in families heading out of Sydney and around the State.

“It is a great time to explore our beautiful State, but please be mindful of others on the roads – take regular breaks, stick to the speed limit and drive to the conditions,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“This weekend thousands of people will be heading out to watch the AFL and NRL grand finals. I would urge people to plan ahead and if drinking, leave the car at home.”

Mr Grant said police would be out in force around the State as part of Operation Slow Down to ensure drivers were sticking to the rules.

“The road toll currently stands at 286 and while that may seem like just a number, the fact is that every fatality represents a loved family member lost,” Mr Grant said.

“Speeding, using a mobile phone and not wearing a seat belt or helmet can also lead to a fatal crash which is why all of these offences will incur double demerit points as part of Operation Slow Down.”

Operation Slow Down will run from 12.01am Friday, September 29 until 11.59pm Monday, October 2.

Officers will be conducting high-visibility patrols, mobile and stationary random breath tests and random drug tests.

Extra traffic is also expected on major routes across NSW over the next few days as families head to popular holiday destinations.

To help plan your journey, please visit the Transport for NSW live traffic website.