Moree Plains and Gwydir Shire Councils' road safety officer, Renee McMillan said the double demerit points campaign would run from Wednesday, December 24 to Sunday, January 4 for all speeding, seatbelt and helmet offences.

“Since double demerits were introduced in 1997 there have been significant reductions in fatal crashes over the holiday periods; including Christmas and New Year, Easter and long weekends,” Mrs McMillan said.

“I urge all motorists to be patient on the roads and take care. Motorists should be aware of driver fatigue, stick to the speed limit, wear their seatbelt, reduce distractions in the car and avoid mixing alcohol with driving.  

"Driving over the speed limit to save a couple of minutes, pushing on driving when you are tired, answering your mobile phone whilst behind the wheel and driving after a few Christmas drinks isn't worth the risk of not arriving. 

The double demerit points in force during the Christmas/New Year period are:

• Exceed the speed limit by 10km/h and under (2 points)

• Exceed the speed limit by over 10km/h (6 points)

• Exceed the speed limit by over 20km/h (8 points)

• Exceed the speed limit by over 30km/h (10 points)

• Exceed the speed limit by over 45km/h (12 points)

• Driver not wearing his/her own seatbelt (6 points)

• Driver penalty for each passenger not wearing a seatbelt (6 points)

• Rider on a motorcycle not wearing his/her own helmet (6 points)

• Rider penalty for passenger on a motorcycle not wearing a helmet (6 points)