WITH the long weekend approaching, acting road safety minister John Day is urging South West drivers to stay safe.
From midnight Thursday there will be double demerit points for traffic offenses.
The fine for using a mobile phone while driving is now $400, running a red light $300, failure to wear a motorcycle helmet $550 and four demerit points; and failing to keep a safe distance when overtaking $300.
Mr Day said higher penalties should discourage motorists from committing traffic offences that endangered themselves and others.
“Any loss of life or serious injury on our roads is entirely preventable - no family should be facing the loss of a loved one through road trauma,” he said.
Double demerits will be in place this long weekend from Friday, September 26 to Monday, September 29 inclusive.