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, July 7 and conclude Friday, July 18. 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,” Mr 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.”
Mr 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.”
NSW Police figures
2024 School holiday period (12-week period) there were 2106 crashes where people were injured, including 63 fatalities;
2023 School holiday period (12-week period) there were 2228 crashes where people were injured, including 56 fatalities;
2025 January and April school holiday period there were 1305 crashes where people were injured, including 37 fatalities; and
The July school holidays are typically the third worst period for fatal crashes compared to the other school holidays.
Driving Tips
Look out for black ice, a coating of glaze ice on the surface of the road which is transparent and hard to see and can cause a loss of traction;
Stay alert during heavy rainfall as it can cause pooling on the road, leading to an inability to control the vehicle and poor visibility;
Avoid driving in dark and wet conditions as it carries the risk of not seeing wildlife;
Drive to the conditions especially in regional areas like the Snowy Mountains, Orange, Bathurst and the Blue Mountains; and
Check your cars are roadworthy before travelling – monitor tyre pressure, fluids, brakes, lights, wipers and car battery to ensure they are in good working condition.
Police Media
