The NSW government introduced harsher penalties in September for drivers caught using their mobile phones, increasing the demerit point penalty from four to five points.
With DOUBLE Demerit points coming in tonight this means that if you are caught using your phone behind the wheel over the Christmas and New Year period you could be penalised ten demerit points, as well as copping a $337 fine. Having your phone in your hand, on your lap, resting between your shoulder and ear are all illegal while driving.
In NSW, unrestricted Australian licence holders can accumulate 13 demerit points over a three-year period before they have their licence suspended.
So just holding your phone this Christmas / New Year might see you with only three points left to last you three years.... are you ready for suspension - and if you were speeding and on the phone - then goodbye licence in one hit. Drivers caught speeding these holidays face a loss of between two and 12 demerit points depending on how much they exceed the limit, with fines starting at $119 and going all the way up to $2435. Drivers caught not wearing a seatbelt will be given six demerit points and a $337 fine soaring to 12 points and up to $1422 if passengers are also unrestrained. For motorbike riders caught without a helmet; expect a loss of six points and a $337 fine
NRMA Christmas Advert 2018: Enjoy our magical new Christmas story ‘Don’t Drive Naughty, Drive Nice’, a reminder to drive safely these holidays from our most precious cargo - the kids in our back seats.
