More than 40 speeding drivers copped double demerit points as Hawkesbury police completed a high-visibility traffic operation over the long weekend.
Highway Patrol officers reported that 42 speed-related penalty notices were issued throughout the duration of Operation Slow Down, which was conducted from October 4 to October 7.
Another 95 other traffic-related penalty notices were issued, relating to incidents such as failure to wear seatbelts and holding a mobile phone while driving.
Of the 1930 breath tests conducted in the Hawkesbury, two drink drivers were charged, one for low range PCA and one for mid range PCA.
Two drivers were also charged after returning positive readings for drugs, Hawkesbury police stated.
Six people died on the state's roads during the October long weekend, which police stated was one more than the 2018 total on the same weekend.
In 2019 alone, 287 people lost their lives on NSW roads to Tuesday, October 8, police stated.
"Across the state, police conducted 191,229 breath tests, issued 7632 traffic infringement notices and charged 222 individuals with drink driving offences [during the operation]," a police statement said.
While the North West Metropolitan region - of which Hawkesbury is a part - did not record any fatalities, a total of 70 major crashes were recorded over the long weekend.
A total of 590 speed infringements were issued across the region, with nearly 38,400 breath tests conducted. Of these, 41 drink driving charges were laid.
Commander of the Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, Assistant Commissioner Michael Corboy, was disappointed many drivers continued to ignore the warnings despite obvious consequences.
"Despite the huge amount of resources and messaging that has been invested across the state, year on year we have seen increases in crashes, injuries and deaths," Assistant Commissioner Corboy said in a statement.
"Drivers need to realise that driving at speed, texting while driving, being under the influence of alcohol and drugs, and other irresponsible behaviour can have devastating effects on their own lives and the lives of others."
Police were particularly concerned about driving practices in regional NSW where all fatalities took place, in addition to increases in major crashes and persons injured.
"NSW Police will maintain our focus on keeping the people of this state safe on our roads, so if you choose to break the law expect to face consequences," Assistant Commissioner Corboy said.
