Five dead on roads
POLICE are appealing for motorists to drive to the conditions after five people were killed on the states roads today.
Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner John Hartley urged motorists to take care on the roads and avoid a holiday tragedy.
"With rain predicted for much of the state today, I want motorists to slow down and drive according to the conditions," he said.
"While we have had three fewer fatalities compared to the same period last year, we have seen a significant rise in the number of people injured on our roads."
Since Friday December 21, 203 people have been injured in 621 crashes, compared to 158 people injured in 530 crashes during Operation Safe Arrival 2011.
"We often see an increase in traffic incidents during wet weather, but I'm hoping all motorists heed the warning so everyone makes it to their destination this holiday season," Asst Comm Hartley said.
So far this holiday season the Northern Rivers remains fatality free.
Operation Safe Arrival which is targeting speeding, drink-driving, seatbelt and other traffic offences concludes at 11.59pm on Friday January 4.
Double demerit points will be in place until 11.59pm on Tuesday January 1 for speeding, seatbelt and helmet offences.
