Officers from the Ipswich Highway Patrol unit with assistance from the Queensland Police Service (QPS) Road Policing Task Force (RPTF) and National Heavy Vehicle Regulator have carried out a two-day traffic operation targeting heavy vehicle drivers.
Between May 20 and 21, the initiative, which is part of Operation Yankee Interpose, focused on driver fatigue, load restraint, vehicle roadworthiness, drink and drug driving, and compliance with heavy vehicle legislation along the districts key freight routes.
The operation which was conducted along the Warrego and Cunningham Highways also provided education to drivers regarding safe driving practices and industry obligations.
During the deployment, officers conducted 532 roadside breath tests (RBTs) and 121 roadside drug tests (RDTs), resulting in six people caught drink driving and seven people caught drug driving.
Officers also conducted 91 heavy vehicle intercepts and issued 53 traffic infringements throughout the operation.
During an intercept along the Warrego Highway at Riverview on 21 May, a 61-year-old Oakey man allegedly returned a positive random drug test and was issued a notice to appear in the Toowoomba Magistrates Court on 22 May.
He was also charged with drug offences after officers allegedly located an amount of methylamphetamine inside his vehicle and was referred for drug diversion in relation to possessing dangerous drugs.
Darling Downs District Officer Acting Superintendent Ben Mackenzie said heavy vehicles play a vital role in keeping Queensland moving, however safety and compliance remain essential to reducing road trauma on our roads.
"Whether you're behind the wheel of a car or a heavy vehicle, the same road rules apply - every driver has a responsibility to make safe decisions and help keep our roads safe for everyone," said Acting Superintendent Mackenzie.
"Police will continue working with industry partners to ensure all drivers understand their obligations, because one poor decision on the road can have devastating consequences."
The Queensland Police Service is committed to reducing the number of lives lost on our roads.
As part of Operation Interpose, police are bolstering high-visibility patrols right across the state, engaging with road users and enforcing the laws to deter dangerous driving behaviours.
Queenslanders can expect police – anywhere, anytime. However, enforcement alone cannot stop all dangerous driving behaviours.
Driving under the influence, speeding, driving distracted or while fatigued, or not wearing a seatbelt puts your life – and the lives of others – at serious risk. These dangerous behaviours will not be tolerated.
Road safety starts with you.
