Double demerits over Labour Day long weekend

Motorists are reminded to drive with care as double demerit points come into effect over the Labour Day long weekend.

ACT Policing officers will be out conducting high visibility and unmarked patrols to ensure Canberrans stay safe over the break.

The double demerit period begins on Friday, 2 October and ends on Monday, 5 October 2020.

Officer in Charge of Road Policing, Detective Inspector Marcus Boorman said the long weekend was not the time to put other drivers and your license at risk.

“Double demerits are not in place to punish drivers doing the wrong thing, they are an incentive over and above the normal system for drivers to ensure they drive more safely during busy periods on our roads,” Detective Inspector Boorman said.

“That said, double demerits can have a serious impact on your ability to maintain your license depending on the offense, so I advise drivers to be extra cautious on the roads.

“Previous double demerit point periods have been successful in reducing dangerous driver behaviour, and with the ACT road toll already at five for this year, the importance of driving safely cannot be overstated.

“Drivers also need to do their part. Road safety is everyone’s responsibility so slow down, drive to the conditions and get to your destination safely so you can enjoy the long weekend.”

During the double demerit period, all speeding, seatbelt, and mobile phone offences attract double demerit points, as does riding without a helmet. All other traffic offences will incur one additional demerit point.

Media enquiries

Police Media — (02) 5126 9070, act-police-media@afp.gov.au