NSW Police and Crime Stoppers NSW have called on road users to report drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving on roads across the state as part of a new safety campaign.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
The 'Four Ds' (drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving) campaign was launched on December 1. The campaign focuses on enlisting the community's help to crack down on the 'Four Ds' to prevent crashes and keep loved ones safe.
READ ALSO:
Minister for police and emergency services David Elliott said dangerous driving was unacceptable and the NSW Government was determined to highlight the concerning behaviour.
"This government is committed to community safety and we know that the 4Ds - drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving - are a significant contributor to deaths on our roads," he said.
"The people of NSW have been through enough this year, we want to see everyone enjoy the Christmas and New Year periods with family without tragedy or chaos.
"This behaviour is deplorable and we're determined to help put a stop to it once and for all. The NSW Police Force and Crime Stoppers initiative reminds us all that we each contribute to safety on our roads."
So far this year, 280 people have died on NSW roads with speed a factor in 28 per cent of cases, drugs a factor in 20 per cent, 16 per cent alcohol-related.
Traffic and Highway Patrol commander assistant commissioner Karen Webb said more people would be using NSW roads in coming weeks with borders reopening and the Christmas holidays period approaching.
"Keeping the public safe is our top priority. We're asking for you to help us protect yourselves, loved ones and the community on NSW roads," she said.
"If you see or know anyone who is drink, drug, dangerous or distracted driving, please report it to Crime Stoppers and we will investigate.
"Our message to motorists breaking the law is clear: someone is watching you now and you will get caught."
Assistant commissioner Webb highlighted some ways road users could report the 'Four Ds' without jeopardising their own safety or breaking the law:
- Use a passenger to record the time of the incident and the registration of the driver's vehicle.
- If possible, keep dashcam vision of the incident and provide it to Crime Stoppers or police.
- If it's an emergency - where there is a threat to life or someone's safety - please call Triple Zero (000) through a passenger, hands-free, or pull over somewhere safe.
- If it's not an emergency, contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Crime Stoppers NSW CEO Peter Price said he hoped community involvement would help improve safety and accountability on NSW roads.
"Never before have we asked the community to report these crimes and Crime Stoppers NSW is the first, not only in Australia, but around the world, to initiate this campaign," he said.
"This is one of the most important campaigns we have ever embarked upon. These traffic issues are an offence and these offences often lead to innocent people being injured or killed which is absolutely devastating for their families.
"We are counting on the community's strong relationship with us to contact Crime Stoppers and make our roads safer for everyone."
