The NSW road toll has already reached 353, and despite the number of fatal accidents and injuries in the Shoalhaven being down on this time last year police have renewed their appeal to local drivers to take care on our roads.

Shoalhaven Local Area Command Duty Officer, Inspector Rob Vergano had a simple message for road users ahead of the expected busy festive period “be patient”.

“NSW Police is focussed on reducing the road trauma in regional areas,” he said “It is a statewide focus.

“Locally, it is a goal of our command to reduce trauma on the region’s roads.”

To that end police will continue their mini blitzes, like Operation Compliance 5 which was held on Wednesday in a response to the growing road toll. There will also be an increased presence on our roads, especially over the festive season.

“In the Shoalhaven the number of fatal crashes or injuries from accidents is down on this time last year but that doesn’t mean drivers should be complacent,” Insp Vergano said.

“Speeding offences are up and drink driving offences are about on par with last year.

“Some drivers are getting the message, others are not.”

During a 24-hour operation at the weekend, officers and the Traffic and Highway Patrol were out in force and conducted 160 random breath tests, with five drivers charged with drink driving.

Officers also issued 18 traffic infringements for speeding and other offences, while two people were charged with possessing prohibited drugs.

“People need to be responsible,” Insp Vergano said “make sure their vehicles are roadworthy, make sure they are rested, be alert and obviously obey the road laws.

“Also be aware of other road users.

“But the biggest message is be patient, especially with the holiday period approaching.

“It is a busy time on our roads. Our population almost triples - allow extra time to get from one destination to the other.

“It is better to be late for an appointment than not getting there at all.

“We will have an increased presence on the roads over the holidays but in the interim officers are continuing to target traffic offences around school zones, people using mobile phones while driving, people not keeping left and inspecting cars for defects.”

Ambulance NSW Shoalhaven Supervisor, Inspector Faye Stockman said motor vehicles accidents impact on everyone.

“It’s not just the people involved in the accidents and their families. It is the various emergency service workers who attend these accidents,” she said.

“I encourage people to drive responsibly and to the conditions.

“Slow down, have regular breaks. Stop, revive, survive. Don’t take alcohol and drugs and get behind the wheel and drive.”

She said when personnel arrived at accidents their training kicks in and they get on with their jobs.

“But we are like everyone, we are human. These accidents affect us too,” Insp Stockman said.

“We are lucky we have the support services available to our members. Ideally it would be great if we didn’t have to use them at all over the holiday break.

“It is the festive season. It is about family. We want people to get to their destinations safely and have a great time with family and friends.”