POLICE have had drink-drivers in their sights as officers were out in force at the long weekend.
Northern region figures reveal that with another day still to go of Easter Operation 2022, police had stopped more than 20,700 drivers for a random breath test and dished out 54 drink-driving charges.
Another 12 people were caught using their phone while driving, 28 failed to wear a seatbelt and a dozen were caught speeding on the region's roads.
More than 50 major crashes were reported with 17 people suffering injuries, but thankfully no lives had been lost.
It comes after seven people lost their lives during the Easter long weekend in 2021 and more than 300 people were caught under the influence of alcohol.
Police are still investigating an incident on the Central Coast after a man suffered serious injuries after a "violent struggle" with a dog unit officer.
The Easter Operation is focused on reducing road fatalities and trauma on the holiday weekend, and Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander Acting Assistant Commissioner Paul Glinn said a significant number of police resources have been deployed.
"The number of people who blatantly disregarded the road rules last year and put the broader community at risk was unacceptable," he said.
"Make no mistake that our police will be out and about this weekend - including on major road networks and on local streets - to catch those doing the wrong thing."
Double demerits are in force until midnight on Monday, and travellers are urged to plan their return trips safely at the end of the long weekend.
NSW Police Minister Paul Toole said everyone has a role to play to keep the roads safe.
"We need to remember we've had extremely wet weather over recent weeks, and as the large-scale recovery operation to repair flood-damaged roads is underway, it's crucial that drivers plan ahead for potential road closures and how that may impact on journey times," he said.
"It is more important than ever to pay attention, drive to the conditions and be aware of speed limits because we don't want to see families torn apart by the impacts of road accidents.
"Remember, every police car has the ability to conduct random breath tests, so don't risk drinking and driving."
