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WA Police Force traffic fleet to get new look

Double demerit points from midnight tonight until midnight Monday September 24

Police and Road Safety Minister Michelle Roberts today joined with emergency services in a plea for people to take care in what will be a busy long weekend on Western Australian roads.

Mrs Roberts unveiled the first of the new police traffic cars - the Kia Stinger - which will replace 48 patrol cars in a staged rollout from next year.

The Queen's Birthday long weekend coincides with the start of the WA school holidays and Perth Royal Show, and traffic volume on roads across the State are expected to significantly increase.

The Minister today hosted a morning tea with emergency first responders to thank them for their important work, following a horror period on WA roads where eight people lost their lives in six days.

WA Police Force officers will be out on the roads and highways conducting pro-active patrols all long weekend.

Double demerit points begin from midnight tonight and apply to anyone caught speeding, running a red light, drink or drug driving, using their mobile phones or not wearing a seatbelt.

More information can be found on the Road Safety Commission website.

Comments attributed to Police and Road Safety Minister Michelle Roberts:

"Our emergency first responders do extraordinary work in difficult circumstances; work that the rest of us can't even begin to imagine.

"The emotional aftermath of a serious road crash doesn't just impact the families affected, but our emergency service workers too.

"We've got a long weekend coming up and it will be a busy time on our roads.

"I want to ask drivers to particularly be mindful of children using the roads during the school holidays or making their way to the Royal Show.

"It's about taking the time to drive carefully and safely.

"Please don't be a statistic; don't ask these people to have to come out and rescue you."

Minister's office - 6552 6900