NSW Police blitz over Christmas and New Year period reveals shocking statistics on crash injuries, drink driving

Dozens of people have been injured in more than 170 crashes on northern NSW roads this festive period. Here’s the shocking statistics.

Sixty-eight people have been injured in road-related incidents in less than two weeks across the state’s north.

Dozens of people have been injured in more than 170 “major” crashes in less than two weeks across northern NSW, as police work to stop ongoing mayhem during the holiday period.

During an 11-day traffic operation over Christmas and the new year celebrations, NSW Police detected a worrying number of dangerous driving incidents, including reckless speeding and high-range drink-driving.

Police reported nine deaths across the state during Operation Christmas/New Year between December 23 last year and January 2, this year.

Although no lives were lost in the police’s “Northern Region” division, 174 major crashes occurred over less than a dozen days, with 68 people injured.

A four-wheel drive crashed into a stationary garbage truck on the Pacific Highway north of Urunga. File image.

Coffs Harbour and Clarence police Commander Superintendent Steve Clarke said: “Statistics show that the majority of people injured in road crashes in our area are local residents.”

“If you intend to celebrate please ensure you have a plan B. Please assist police to keep our local roads safe and fatality free this festive season and into 2023,” he said.

In less than two weeks, 64,856 breath tests were undertaken, with 203 drink driving charges laid. Police also levelled 266 drug driving charges against motorists.

During a recent court case covered by this publication, state Magistrate Cathy Krittenden said she had dealt with the consequences of many tragedies caused by drink driving.

A crash on the Pacific Highway, Coffs Harbour. File image.

“There is a significant increase of risk when alcohol and driving are mixed,” she warned.

Police issued 2172 speeding fines between December 23 and January 3.

In another case, Magistrate Julia Virgo said in her experience speeding – even “casual” speeding – leads to crashes and deaths, particularly among younger drivers.

“Stats’ tell us a significant number of accidents occur on public holidays and the chance of injury of is significantly higher,” she said.

Tributes laid near the Lismore Golf Club after a teen was killed in a crash. File image.

In the same time period, 95 people were busted for seatbelt offences, and 117 motorists were caught using their mobile phones in northern NSW.

In 2022, a total of 288 people lost their lives on NSW roads, compared to 275 in 2021.

Originally published as NSW Police blitz over Christmas and New Year period reveals shocking statistics on crash injuries, drink driving