Double demerits start at midnight

Andrew Barr is warning that double demerits for driving offences are kicking off tonight.

Double demerits will apply from 12.01am on Friday 23 December 2011 until midnight Monday 2 January 2012 inclusive.

Double demerit points will apply to all seatbelt related offences across the ACT and New South Wales. This means that six points can be applied to the licence of any driver not wearing a seatbelt or a driver who permits children to travel in a vehicle without being restrained in a seatbelt or child restraint.

Speeding remains one of the main causes of road deaths and serious accidents in the ACT.

If drivers exceed the speed limit this festive season by more than 15km/h and up to 30km/h, 6 demerit points will be applied. Exceeding the speed limit by 45 km/h or more during this period will result in 12 demerit points and the risk of licence suspension.

Also drivers who commit offences such as running red lights, failing to stop at stop signs or using a hand-held mobile phone while driving will receive one extra demerit point on top of the usual number given.

So you’ve been warned.