NSW: Police expect at least 12 more road deaths in 1998

AAP General News (Australia)
12-24-1998
NSW: Police expect at least 12 more road deaths in 1998

SYDNEY, Dec 24 AAP - At least 12 more deaths were expected on New South Wales roads in the
seven days before the end of the year, police said today.

Gearing up for one of the busiest days of year on the road - Boxing Day - police warned
drivers to exercise extra care when driving over the holiday period.

"With seven deaths already during Operation Safe Arrival 98, statistics indicate we can
expect to have 12 more fatal accidents before the end of 1998," Traffic Services Commander
Superintendent Ron Sorrenson said in a statement.

"Country roads, especially, will become busier and more prone to traffic jams as people
travel to meet friends and relatives and head to their holiday destinations.

"That's why there will be a strong police presence on all main and arterial country and
metropolitan roads and I urge all drivers to exercise caution when driving."

Operation Safe Arrival includes double demerit points, which were instigated at midnight on
Wednesday night, for speeding offences.

Supt Sorrenson warned drivers one serious speeding offence during this period could result
in the cancellation of a licence.

Police are also appealing to overseas tourists to familiarise themselves with NSW road
rules and speed limits.

The call follows a number of English and German tourists being detected speeding along the
Pacific Highway, some almost 80 kilometres over the 100km/h speed limit.

AAP mw/tsm/it

KEYWORD: TOLL NSW SAFETY

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