Sergeant James Prentice, from Cootamundra LAC highway patrol, said police would be out in force over the coming weeks with the aim of curbing the road toll. 

It’s all part of a statewide campaign called Operation Safe Arrival running from December 19 to January 5. 

“We want everyone to be very vigilant of the road conditions and ensure they are maintaining the correct speed for the correct zone,” he said. 

“We will be out in force in relation to drink and drug driving.

“We want the roads to be safe for everyone and for them to get to their destination.” 

Sergeant Prentice said all of the command’s highway patrol cars would be in action over the two week period, supported by general police cars.

“The aim is that everyone arrives safely and enjoys the festive season with their loved ones,” he said. 

“We wish everyone a safe and happy New Year and Christmas.” 

Double demerits will be in place from December 24 2014 until January 4 2015 for speeding, seatbelt and motorcycle helmet offences.

Statewide, there will be 388 highway patrol cars, 22 crash investigation vehicles, 24 motorcycle response team motorbikes and drug and alcohol testing buse - the highest number of high visibility police numbers the state has ever seen.

Police are aiming to curb the road toll, with 11 deaths over the same time last year and 1750 major crashes resulting in 534 injured people.