Just because there's less cars on the road doesn't mean road rules no longer apply.
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That's the message from NSW Police to Mid Coast motorists following recent detections of dangerous driving across the State.
So far this year, there has been a significant drop in traffic on NSW roads which is largely attributed to the flow-on effects of the recent bushfire crisis and ongoing COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic.
As a result, there have been fewer fatal crashes and drink-driving detections compared with the same period last year.
However, there has been an increase in the number of speeding infringements issued.
Comparing the period March 16 to April 26 over the past three years shows fatal and injury crashes has halved this year while the number of deaths is 14 fewer than last year.
Drink-driving offences have halved but the proportion of those being high range is up to 21 per cent from an average of 15 per cent in earlier years.
Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander Assistant Commissioner Michael Corboy said the statistics show some motorists have little regard for their own safety and the lives of others.
"Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is one of the most selfish acts someone can undertake, but some of the significant high-range PCA readings have been shocking; a sign that some people are taking their road use for granted," he said.
"Random breath testing and drug testing are still being conducted, and, as traffic increases as various restrictions are relaxed, highway patrol officers will be there to ensure all road users are doing the right thing.
"While the year-to-date road toll is 25 fewer than last year at 109, we need to remember that is still 109 people whose families, friends and workmates have had to suffer the loss of a loved one unnecessarily.
"And then, when you also consider the impact on emergency first-responders and medical staff, the total number of people directly and indirectly affected by road trauma are significant and, for many, life changing.
"The challenge is now on for everyone to do their part to keep the road toll down. In having less vehicles on our roads, it proved the road toll can be decreased, but it is road users 'doing the right thing' that will keep this number down.
"Once you turn the key in the ignition, you are fully responsible for your actions, and police will be there to hold you accountable."
In the same period during the past three years, the number of speeding offences was stable.
The exception to this was drivers caught speeding at 45km/h or more. This increased dramatically to 425 offences, more than 100 on previous years.
Police and Emergency Services Minister David Elliott said this behaviour is a 'recipe for disaster'.
"I was in disbelief on learning that one offender was clocked doing more than 240km/h in a 60 zone. This is absolutely moronic behaviour at a time when our emergency services workers are focused on the fight against the pandemic," he said.
"It was only last week we saw the tragic loss of four officers in Victoria who were simply doing their jobs to protect the community."
Assistant Commissioner Corboy added that the main message is about personal responsibility.
"Ultimately, how you behave on the road is up to you but remember, while there fewer vehicles currently on the road, there's still the same amount of police, so traffic offences are somewhat easier to detect," he said.
"If you drink or use drugs and drive, not wear a seat belt, speed, or drive distracted or fatigued, you're making a decision to come under police notice.
"If you've ever displayed any of these driver behaviours, now is the time to change your ways; not just to avoid a fine or other legal action, it might just save a life."