The Queensland Police Service (QPS) is reminding motorists of the importance of being courteous on the roads in hopes of improving road safety and fostering kindness across the state, as we prepare for another busy school holiday period.
The important initiative, while not enforceable, seeks to encourage all road users to consider other drivers on the roads, perhaps by adding a couple of 'courtesy waves' to their day.
Leveraging the annual day of tomfoolery of April 1, the QPS released vision this morning of drivers adopting the wave in an effort to make Queensland roads both safer and kinder.
Senior Constable Krystle Muller of Highway Patrol Mount Ommaney hopes the cheeky initiative alerts road users to the importance of polite practices and encourages users to be more mindful of one another.
"While we won't actually be enforcing the 'courtesy wave', our intention of promoting kinder practices between road users is genuine," Senior Constable Muller said.
"The 'courtesy wave' is a gesture in which one motorist waves to another to signal either a thank you or an acknowledgement, and has proven positive impacts on the relationship between road users.
"This incredibly simple action can be used to give a fellow driver the go-ahead to merge in front of you in dense traffic, as a signal to come through on tight roads and most importantly, as a thank you.
"Each of these reasons is a step towards making our roads a safer place.
"By acknowledging one another on the roads, we are easing tension and advocating for safety.
"When we show respect and understanding on the road, we're not just driving safely - we're making sure everyone gets to their destination with a little more peace of mind."
As the Easter school holidays approach, police are asking motorists to increase their courtesy and patience with traffic expected to increase, to ensure everyone can make it home safely.
Last year saw Queensland reach a devastating record of the highest number of lives lost on the state's roads since 2009.
"Every decision we make behind the wheel makes a difference on our roads," said Senior Constable Muller.
"Prioritising kindness encourages us to consider those beyond ourselves, which is essential when sharing road space."
The QPS is committed to making Queensland roads safer and will continue to raise awareness, improve road safety, and advocate for driver behaviours one wave at a time.
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
