NSW Police are urging drivers to take extra care on the roads during the next two weeks, with data indicating 20 percent of fatal or serious crashes occur during school holiday periods.
Motorists who plan to travel across the state are being urged to drive to the weather conditions which are typically adverse in the month of July.
The winter public school holidays begin on Monday 7 July and conclude Friday 18 July 2025.
Officers will be conducting enforcement patrols and operations over the next two weeks to deter drivers from making poor decisions.
In the July school holidays last year, eight people lost their lives in fatal crashes; the same number of deaths were recorded for the same period in 2023.
NSW Police data shows almost 20 percent of crashes involving injuries or fatalities occur during the 12 weeks of public school holidays.
So far this year, 190 lives have been lost, 29 more deaths than for this time last year.
Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner David Driver, said the July school holidays was typically a time when weather conditions could contribute to serious crashes.
“Drivers need to be aware of the risks when travelling in wet and snowing conditions, with black ice a serious hazard on our roads at this time of year,” Assistant Commissioner Driver said.
“Our data shows one in five serious or fatal crashes happen in the school holidays.
“We also know that about two thirds of fatal crashes occur on regional areas.”
Assistant Commissioner Driver said the school holidays were a time when families typically go on road trips, often in unfamiliar territory.
“Take extra care, reduce your speed, and remain focused so you and your family can arrive at your destination safely.
“As always, don’t speed, wear a seatbelt, never drive when tired, do not use a mobile phone while driving and never drive if affected by drugs or alcohol.”
