Extra police on the roads for expected influx on Great Southern roads over Christmas and New Year

Great Southern police are calling on motorists to take more responsibility for their behaviour ahead of one of the busiest times on regional roads.

As the Christmas and New Year period approaches and traffic spikes in the Great Southern Police District, there will also be more officers patrolling the roads.

Double demerits will start on December 24 and finish on January 9 for category A offences, including speeding, drink-driving, not wearing a seatbelt and using a mobile phone while behind the wheel.

However, Great Southern traffic officer-in-charge Sergeant Derek Grimes said the onus was on road users to drive safely.

“We are looking for drivers of vehicles to have more ownership of their responsibilities behind the wheel and to ensure their driving behaviour is correct,” Sgt Grimes said.

“People need to start taking responsibility for their actions.

“There will be increased traffic on major highways and secondary roads and we are asking people to adhere to the road rules and have patience with fellow motorists.”

There have been 23 fatal crashes resulting in 25 deaths so far this year in the district.

“Police and other agencies are working tirelessly to prevent further road trauma,” Sgt Grimes said.

“There will be a high volume of traffic in the district, especially with holiday makers, so police will be out in force, more than last year, and also patrolling secondary roads.

“Additional staff have been brought in to help with extra patrols.

“Speeding and drink-driving are my main concerns and the other areas we are focusing on is fatigue and inattention.

“Please drive safe on our roads, make sure you get to your destination safely and from the Great Southern traffic team we wish everyone a merry Christmas and a happy new year.”