As Queensland gears up for the September school holidays, the Queensland Police Service (QPS) launched Operation Spring Break, a state-wide road safety initiative spanning from Coolangatta to Cape York and the Outback to the islands targeting unsafe driving behaviours to help keep roads safe during this busy travel period.
Operation Spring Break runs from Friday, September 13 and continues through to Sunday, September 29. Motorists should expect to see police anywhere, anytime, with increased patrols aimed at disrupting dangerous driving.
As holiday-goers flock to Queensland roads, police are urging motorists to take extra precautions, drive safely, and remain mindful of increased traffic. This operation coincides with Rural Road Safety Month and aims to bolster the Road Policing Task Force's high-visibility patrols in regional and rural areas.
To ensure safer driving practices, Operation Spring Break involves both visible and covert patrols, along with static roadside testing. Police will enforce a zero-tolerance policy for unsafe driving behaviours, including speeding, drink and drug driving, failing to wear seatbelts, and distracted driving. Officers will also pay close attention to vehicle safety standards, reminding drivers that unsafe vehicles can lead to serious crashes.
As of September 13, 2024, 200 people have tragically lost their lives on Queensland roads this year, with many of these fatalities caused by speeding and dangerous driving. Police are urging all motorists to be mindful of their driving and take necessary precautions to ensure everyone reaches their destinations safely.
Chief Superintendent Garrath Channells called on motorists to partner with police by driving safely and staying vigilant of other road users during the busy holiday period.
"We're calling on all motorists to plan their trips ahead, be patient with the extra traffic, take regular breaks and prioritise safety," Chief Superintendent Channells said.
"We need to work together to make our roads safer, so motorists should expect to see police anywhere, anytime.
"Every life lost on the road is a tragedy, and we all have a responsibility to prevent it."
Operation Spring Break highlights the importance of safe driving practices, with QPS ramping up its efforts to ensure that Queenslanders enjoy the holidays safely. Learn more about the Fatal Five and how to stay safe on Queensland Roads.
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
