This year, double demerits will be in place in NSW for 11 days over the Christmas and New Year holiday period, starting from Friday, 23 December until Monday, 3 January inclusive.

What are Double Demerits?

The Double Demerit points system in NSW is a part of a scheme that was introduced as a measure to reduce road fatalities and injuries. The scheme applies to specific periods throughout the year and involves drivers receiving double demerit points for certain traffic offences.

In NSW, double demerit points apply to the following offences:

• Speeding
• Mobile phone use
• Not wearing a seatbelt
• Motorcycle helmet offences
• Driving an unregistered vehicle

The NSW government imposes double demerit points in order to ensure that road safety is taken seriously. It is important to remember that these rules are in place to protect all road users, so it is important to follow them to the letter. Additionally, making sure your vehicle is registered and that you are wearing a seatbelt can help to protect you in the event of an accident.

The double demerit point system is an effective way of promoting responsible driving behaviour and should be taken seriously. It is important to remember that the penalties for breaking the road rules are much more severe during double demerit point periods, so it is best to drive safely.

What Do Double Demerits Mean For Me?

During a Double Demerit points period, the penalties for any relevant offence committed are doubled. As the name suggests the usual demerit points associated with the offence are also doubled and added to the driver’s existing demerit points total. For example, if you are caught speeding and given an infringement that usually carries 4 demerit points, you will be given 8 demerit points instead of 4.

If a driver accumulates 12 or more demerit points within a three year period, their licence will be suspended.

What Should you do if your Licence has been suspended due to Double Demerits?

If your licence is going to be suspended due to double demerits, contacting an expert traffic lawyer can help you understand your rights and the potential outcomes for you. With the expertise and experience of a lawyer, you can make an informed decision on the best course of action for you.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to Joshua Blom Lawyers today and get the answers you need. Call us on (02) 4800 9011 or to learn more about appealing a licence suspension fill out the below form for a FREE no obligation quote.