Putty Road fatality in multi-vehicle crash

BY JESSICA ROUSE

The number of tragedies on the Hunter's roads continued to grow over this Christmas and New Year, with one motorcyclist dead and a second in a serious condition after a horror multi-vehicle crash on Putty Road yesterday.

Emergency services were called to the scene at about 1:30pm following reports three motorcycles and a small truck had collided.

The condition of the third motorcyclist is still unknown and the truck driver was uninjured but taken to hospital for mandatory testing.

NSW Police Operation Safe Arrival wrapped up last night with the finish of double demerits.

Double Demerits Now in Force

BY GEORGIA LUPTON

Police are urging motorists across the Hunter to drive safely this festive season as double demerits begin today.

The double demerit point scheme will apply to offences such as not using a seatbelt, riding without a helmet, illegal use of mobile phones and speeding.

Double demerits are enforced until 12am on the 3rd of January as part of Operation Safe Arrival which was launched by Police last Friday.

While there are additional penalties for driving offences, the main focus of the Operation is safety.

Assistant Commissioner, Michael Corboy says by simply abiding by the law, drivers will avoid penalties and more importantly, road accidents.

"This is something we've all grown up with. To not do it is just plain stupid".

The Assistant Commissioner says it's not just up to the driver to make sure road rules are being obeyed.

"I'm also calling on all passengers in vehicles and family members to say 'if you've had a few beers please don't drink and drive' and 'mum or dad, please put that mobile phone away, I don't want you to crash while I'm in the car with you'".