Queensland Police is reminding all road users to make road safety a priority this long weekend as increased traffic volumes heighten the risk of crashes.
Tragically, Queensland has experienced one of its deadliest starts to the year, with more than 15 lives lost.
QPS Road Policing and Regional Support Command Acting Assistant Commissioner Janelle Andrews said the long weekend, coupled with the end of summer school holidays would see an increase in road traffic across the state.
"We're anticipating Queensland roads to be busy with families and friends making the most of the long weekend, but increased traffic means an increased risk of crashes," Acting Assistant Commissioner Andrews said.
"QPS is urging every road user to plan ahead, slow down and take regular breaks to avoid fatigue this long weekend.
"Every decision you make on the road has the power to save a life or take one. We're pleading with road users to make the right choices to ensure everyone gets home safely," Acting Assistant Commissioner Andrews said.
Despite consistent and targeted police action, the start of 2025 has been one of the deadliest in more than a decade.
QPS Road Policing and Regional Support Command Chief Superintendent Garrath Channells said these crashes are deeply concerning.
"These tragic numbers are not just statistics, they represent fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, and friends whose lives have been cut short," Acting Chief Superintendent Channells said.
"QPS is committed to reducing trauma on Queensland roads, but we cannot do it without your help. Road safety is a shared responsibility.
"We will continue our tactical and targeted road safety blitz, Operation Mistletoe, that has officers deployed across the state on high visibility road safety operations with the aim of reducing lives lost on Queensland roads.
"From Coolangatta to Cape York and the outback to the beaches, road users can expect to see police anywhere and anytime," Acting Chief Superintendent Channells said.
The Queensland Police Service is committed to reducing the number of lives lost on our roads.
Data shows that serious crashes can be significantly reduced when drivers recognise and avoid the 'Fatal Five' behaviours: speeding, drink and drug driving, not wearing seatbelts, fatigue and distraction.
Road safety is everyone's responsibility. Learn more about staying safe on Queensland roads: https://www.police.qld.gov.au/initiatives/fatal-five-staying-safe-roads
