Regional areas are overrepresented in road-trauma statistics when compared with metropolitan figures. There have been 285 who have died this year on regional roads in NSW, compared with 103 in metropolitan areas.

NSW Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander Michael Corboy said drivers needed to take responsibility for their own actions.

“Speeding, drink-driving and driving tired are by far the three biggest contributors to fatal crashes, especially in country or regional areas and a combination of any two of these factors is a disaster waiting to happen,” he said.

“Tragically, when a bad decision is made by a driver or rider, it is not only that person that is put at risk, they are usually putting their own passengers and all other road users at risk of getting involved in a fatal crash.

“We are past the point of being disappointed, we are now angry that drivers are not listening to our warnings.

“Many drivers are returning home after spending Christmas with their loved ones, please make sure you are rested before your trip home, and take regular breaks.”