A warning has been issued for motorists preparing for the Christmas holidays for them to be well-rested before getting behind the wheel. 

Research has shown being awake for about 17 hours has a similar effect on performance as having a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.05.

Double demerits will be enforced from midnight on December 21 to midnight on New Year’s Day.

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Leeton Shire Council road safety officer Stephanie Puntoriero urged drivers to take care this festive season.

“Speed is still the biggest contributing factor in 32 per cent of all the crashes in the Leeton area over the past five years with over 50 per cent of accidents in the shire resulting in the vehicle leaving the roadway,” she said.

“We all want to be with our families as soon as we possibly can at this time of the year, but it’s important not to speed and include plenty of rest breaks in your journey.

School zones throughout Leeton shire will remain in place until 4pm on December 21. 

Mrs Puntoriero said one of the biggest factors in accidents was also complacency. 

“Motorists should not be complacent over the holiday season,” she said.

“Drivers who speed, drive fatigued, illegally use a mobile phone or are affected by alcohol or drugs are an issue on our roads.

“Plan your night if celebrating, have a Plan B in place to get home.

“NSW Police will be out in force over the Christmas and New Year holiday season.

“It makes no sense to take risks with your licence or your life.” 

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