LOCAL police officers are giving up time with their families over the Christmas period to ensure that road users make it to their destinations safely to see theirs.
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Double demerits will come into force at midnight on December 24 and will apply to a long list of offences, including all speeding offences, illegal use of a mobile phone, seat belt offences and riding without a helmet.
Bathurst Highway Patrol's Sergeant Ryan Baird stressed the importance of good behaviour on the roads over Christmas.
"As we approach the Christmas and New Years periods, I urge all drivers to plan their trip, take regular breaks and drive to the road conditions," he said.
"Everyone deserves to arrive at their destination safely."
He said that his officers will be out in force over the holiday period and "will be targeting the Four D's: drug, drink, distracted and dangerous driving".
They will be paying particular attention to areas with roadworks where the speed limit is reduced.
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"Safety upgrades have commenced on the Mitchell Highway between Bathurst and Orange , and the Great Western Highway between Lithgow and Bathurst. Upgrades include the installation of safety barriers, rumble strips and the widening of roads to reduce road trauma," Sgt Baird said.
"There are road work speed limits displayed along sections of the highways and this speed limit is enforceable and bust be obeyed.
"There will be extra police patrols of the highways this holiday period to ensure that everyone is driving safely."
The double demerit period will conclude at midnight on Sunday, January 3, but good behaviour should continue.