Police Minister Mark Ryan joined Queensland Police Service (QPS) Acting Assistant Commissioner Chris Stream and emergency service representatives to launch the Easter Road Safety campaign, reminding motorists there are no excuses when it comes to road safety during these school holidays.
Operation Victor Easter will be conducted from Saturday, April 1 to Sunday, April 16, encompassing the Easter long weekend, in what is expected to be a very busy time on Queensland’s road network.
Police will conduct targeted operations and maintain a highly visible presence on highways and roads to reduce trauma and fatalities across Queensland.
Many Queenslanders will be taking road trips into unfamiliar areas throughout the holiday period and are urged to avoid the fatal five: speeding, drink or drug driving, not wearing a seatbelt, driving tired and distracted driving.
QPS Acting Assistant Commissioner Chris Stream said the school holiday periods always see increased traffic on the roads with families eager to get to their destinations and travelling in unfamiliar areas.
“Day or night, ensure you drive to the conditions. Don’t speed or drive affected by drugs or alcohol,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Stream said.
“We know that we can significantly reduce fatal crashes if motorists avoid the fatal five behaviours: speeding, drink or drug driving, not wearing a seatbelt, driving tired and distracted driving.
“Expect to see police conducting roadside operations and patrolling our roads, doing everything we can to reduce road trauma and keep Queenslanders safe.
“Getting stopped by police might be an inconvenience to you, but for us, it is often the best-case scenario when the alternative is responding to a fatal traffic crash.”
Over the Easter long weekend last year, sadly one Queenslander lost their life and 60 injury crashes were recorded across the state, often resulting in life altering injuries.
“One life lost is one too many so please be careful. Every decision you make behind the wheel counts,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Stream said.
“And remember, there is no second chance if you make a fatal decision behind the wheel.”
Police Minister Mark Ryan said the school holidays are a great time to get out and about to explore everything that Queensland has to offer but road safety must come first.
“Police are always doing their part to promote road safety and enforce road rules, and you can expect to see them anywhere, anytime,” Minister Ryan said
“It is also critical that motorists prioritise their own safety on the roads.
“Plan your trip, take regular breaks, share the driving, and ensure everyone is buckled up.
“If you see police officers out and about over the break, remember they’re sacrificing time with their own families to make sure that you and yours get home safely.”
Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) Assistant Commissioner David Hartley said each year paramedics are confronted with traumatic injuries as a result of road traffic crashes over the notorious Easter period.
“Decisions made while behind the wheel don’t just affect the driver, but everyone in the vehicle and other road users,” Assistant Commissioner Hartley said.
“A split-second crash can result in a life-time of rehabilitation or tragically a life cut short.”
Easter long weekend 2022 stats:
- One life lost
- 60 injury crashes recorded in Queensland
- 3,788 traffic infringements issued
- 1,217 infringements issued to speeding drivers
- 471 motorists caught while driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
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