Hawkesbury road users called on to dob-in drink, drug-affected, dangerous and distracted drivers

In a world first, NSW Police and Crime Stoppers NSW are calling on road users to actively report drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving on our roads as part of a new safety campaign.

“If you see or know anyone who is drink, drug, dangerous or distracted driving, please report it to Crime Stoppers and we will investigate,” says Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander Assistant Commissioner Karen Webb.

“Our message to motorists breaking the law is clear: someone is watching you now and you will get caught,” said AC Webb, who highlights some ways road users can 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 – 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.

Traffic and Highway Patrol Command and Crime Stoppers were joined by Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David Elliott, and Minister for Transport and Roads, Andrew Constance, to launch the Four Ds (drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving) campaign yesterday.

The campaign is focused on enlisting the community’s help to crack down on the Four Ds to prevent crashes and keep loved ones safe.

Minister 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. 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,” Mr Elliott said.

“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.”

Some 280 people have died on NSW roads so far this year (from 1 January 2020 to 26 November 2020), with speed a factor in 28 per cent of cases, drugs a factor in 20 per cent, 16 per cent alcohol-related.

AC Webb said more people would be using NSW roads in coming weeks with borders reopened and the Christmas holiday 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.”