Police from Mackay Whitsunday District and Capricornia District Highway Patrol units have issued more than 458 traffic infringement notices as part of a high-visibility traffic operation.
Operation Xray Overtake took place on major highways across Central Queensland from 20 to 24 October, with the aim of targeting road-related offences and engaging with drivers and motorcyclists.
Officers conducted more than 4,297 roadside breath tests and 174 roadside drug tests, in which 20 people returned a positive result.
458 traffic infringement notices were issued, including 44 for unregistered and uninsured vehicles, 11 for driving without a seatbelt, and 3 for driving with a mobile phone.
281 people were issued with speeding tickets, including a 35-year-old Northern Territory man who was allegedly observed travelling 151 km/hr in a 100 km/hr zone, resulting in a $1,919 fine, the loss of eight demerit points, and an immediate six-month license suspension.
As part of operations focusing on heavy vehicle operation on roads, 335 heavy vehicles were intercepted, with 25 traffic infringement notices issued.
Officer in Charge of Capricornia District Highway Patrol, Senior Sergeant Ewan Findlater, said operations such as these across regional roads provides a reminder to road users to expect police anywhere, and at any time.
"We want all drivers and motorcyclists to remember that road safety is everyone's responsibility, and that everyone makes it to their next destination safely," said Senior Sergeant Findlater.
"Speeding, driving without a seatbelt, or whilst impaired, fatigued or distracted, can have devastating consequences."
"Make sure you take breaks on long trips, drive to conditions, slow down, and stay alert."
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
