The state recorded its lowest road toll in almost 100 years, but NSW Police said disappointment remained in the number of motorists caught exceeding the speed limit during the 2020-2021 festive season.

The state-wide Christmas and New Year road safety operation commenced at 12.01am on Christmas Eve and finished at 11.59pm on January 3, with double demerit points in force across that period of time.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David Elliott, praised motorists across the state who obeyed road rules, but urged the community not to become complacent.

IN OTHER NEWS:

"The priority every day - not just during the festive season - is to reduce fatalities on the road and for the road safety message to get through to all motorists," he said.

"Compared to this time last year, we saw four fewer fatalities on our roads and only 691 motor vehicle collisions, down 205 from 896 last year.

"We should be proud of the reduction in these numbers but with summer travel continuing, I urge motorists to do all they can to take care behind the wheel and keep our roads safe."

There were no fatalities recorded in the MIA during this period.

Police issued a total of 9407 traffic infringement notices for speeding during this operation - up 650 - compared to the same time last year.

This includes 268 fines for p-plate drivers caught exceeding the limit.

Police said in 2021 they would continue to target drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving.

During the 2020-21 operation, which had police out in force each day targeting speeding, drink and drug-driving, seatbelt, mobile phone and motorcycle helmet offences, officers across the state conducted 199,493 breath tests, charged 569 people with drink driving and issued over 8700 infringements for restraint, mobile and other offences.

Southern

Western