As of midnight last night, Double Demerit points came into effects on roads across New South Wales.
Double Demerit points will be in place from 21 December 2018 until 1 January 2019.
This can be a particularly tricky time for L and P platers in particular as even one offence during the Double Demerit period will usually take you up to the threshold of your demerit point limit.
Under the Double Demerit point scheme, the following type of offences are awarded twice the usual amount of demerit points during this period:
- Speeding;
- Illegal use of mobile phones;
- Not wearing a seatbelt;
- Riding without a helmet.
So for example, usually if you were caught driving using a mobile phone you would be given 5 demerit points. During a double demerit point period this goes up to 10 demerit points.
Any offences during the double demerit point period are treated the same as during a non-demerit point period. You will be issued by a letter through the post by Roads and Maritime Services of the offence and notifying you of how many points they intend to award you. If your offence has taken you over the limit of points allowed on your level of licence, they will notify you of when your licence will be suspended. You may then be given the option to elect to go onto a good behaviour bond for 12 months, or to appeal the decision to suspend your licence, at that point.
If you need assistance, or have any questions relating to demerit points or your options for appeal, please contact us on 1800 650 656. We're here to help!
Be safe on the roads this Christmas and New Year break, and Merry Christmas from Kenny Spring Solicitors!
Alice Cheek | Solicitor