More than 600 drug and drink driving offences have already been detected this year as the Queensland Police Services cracks down on dangerous driving as part of a state-wide traffic enforcement operation.
Operation Charger launched on December 9 in a bid to minimise law-breaking and detect those who choose to do the wrong thing on Queensland roads.
The large-scale operation involves both high visibility and covert patrols, random breath testing and speed camera sites.
Minister for Police, Mark Ryan, said it was disappointing to see that just over one week into the new year, the number of drink and drug drivers was already significant.
"Anyone who chooses to drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs can expect to be caught," Minister Ryan said.
"It is extremely disappointing to know people continue to break the rules and continue to endanger their own lives, and the lives of other motorists."
Queensland Police enforcement efforts have been focusing on drink and drug driving, speeding, distraction, and restraints.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Chris Stream said the number of people breaking the law was concerning.
"While the majority of road users are responsible, since the start of the year, 4980 motorists have been fined or will face court for allegedly breaking the law and putting themselves and other motorists at risk," Acting Assistant Commissioner Stream said.
"And the Operation is not over yet. Police will continue to be out in force as part of this crackdown until January 29, and every day after that."
"The message is simple - if you drink and drive, speed or break road rules – expect to see us."
Minister Ryan said the 2023 road toll was already off to a devastating start.
"Five people are not coming home to their loved ones following fatal accidents already this year," Minister Ryan said.
"Even one life lost on Queensland roads is one too many.
"We had a horror road toll last year, with 299 people killed and we do not want to see that happen again this year. I urge all motorist to obey the road rules and take care while driving.
"This operation is about getting all road users home safely, and ensuring the message is clear – if you do the wrong thing, you can expect to be caught.
"The State Government will always support the QPS in its efforts to reduce the road toll."
From the commencement of Operation Charger on December 9 to January 8:
- 1,311 drink driving offences have been detected, including 353 since January 1
- 917 drug driving offences have been detected, including 248 since January 1
- 11,282 life-endangering offences have been detected, including 1507 since January 1
- 1,763 speeding offences have been detected, including 487 since January 1
- 174 mobile phone offences have been detected, including 41 since January 1
- 115,000 RBTs have been conducted, including 28,944 since January 1
