NSW Police are warning motorists to take it easy over the Easter period with double demerits in place from midnight Thursday April 18.
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With Easter and Anzac Day in the same week, the only 24 hour period where double demerits will not be in effect next week is Tuesday.
The message from police this Easter long weekend is if you are on the road and you are tired - you shouldn't be driving.
Police encourage all families travelling over the Easter weekend period to allow yourself plenty of time to travel so you arrive safely.
- Acting inspector Michael Madgwick
Police will launch Operation Tortoise starting on Thursday and running until 11.59pm on Monday night and then starting again at 12am on Wednesday morning and continuing until 11.59pm on Sunday April 28, it is more important than ever that not only local drivers, but all drivers will lose their licence if they are caught doing the wrong thing behind the wheel.
"Police encourage all families travelling over the Easter weekend period to allow yourself plenty of time to travel so you arrive safely," acting inspector Michael Madgwick said.
Double demerits are applicable to speeding, seatbelt, motorcycle helmets and mobile phone offences while driving on local roads.
"The operation will be designed to disrupt, alcohol and drug driving, excessive and inappropriate speed, use of mobile phones, not wearing occupant restraints and helmet offences and along with fatigue issues," Deputy Acting Inspector Keith Price said.
"Our roads traditionally have a high volume of traffic during this period and Police will be working hard in our community to reduce the road toll, so people return to their loved ones after their holiday safe and well."
Police are asking that drivers, especially those travelling, are patient on the roads and plan for extra traffic while driving.
"Along with this we would like to see drivers take regular stops to ensure they are alert and focused while driving," Deputy Acting Inspector Price said.
"By driving sensibly and not taking unnecessary risks travellers should have a safe and enjoyable Easter break."
Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David Elliott, said police will be out in force ensuring motorists obey speed limits.
"This is an exciting time of year when families get together and enjoy themselves. We want everyone to have a great time during the break," he said.
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