Residents across the Southern Region are being reminded to slow down and stay safe ahead of the start of the Queensland Police Service's (QPS) annual state-wide road safety campaign, Operation X-Ray Mistletoe, which is aiming to reduce road fatalities over the Christmas break.
From tomorrow 13 December through to 26 January, communities can expect to see an increased number of police patrols across the Ipswich, Darling Downs and South West Districts.
The operation will take a targeted and tactical approach to detect and deter speeding, dangerous and impaired driving as well inattention.
Tragically, as of today (December 12), 289 lives have been lost on Queensland roads this year.
Across the Southern Region there have been a total of 45 lives lost including 27 in Darling Downs District, 13 in Ipswich District and five in South West District.
Operation X-Ray Mistletoe's launch follows a targeted road operation in Toowoomba's CBD earlier this week resulting in 35 people issued with Traffic Infringement Notices (TINS) including 17 notices for using a mobile phone.
The operation also saw one person charged after returning a positive roadside drug test.
Acting Senior Sergeant Jo Goodwin from the Darling Downs District Toowoomba Highway Patrol unit said Operation X-Ray Mistletoe will see police focus on driver behaviour to help make our roads safer this festive season.
"This operation is taking a tactical and targeted approach, with increased high-visibility police patrols across the region to help foster safer roads for all users including drivers, riders and pedestrians," A S/Sgt Goodwin said.
"While we know the majority of road users are doing the right thing, we want to remind everyone that road safety is everyone's responsibility."
With the Christmas season also coinciding with the start of rainy and unpredictable weather conditions Acting Senior Sergeant Goodwin is urging all road users to drive to the conditions and prioritise safety.
"We know it's a busy time of year with people travelling to visit loved ones or holiday destinations, so I'm reminding everyone to ensure they are doing the right thing and show consideration for themselves and other road users," A S/Sgt Goodwin said.
"Just remember from Goodna to Goondiwindi and from Toowoomba to Thargominda we will have police patrolling our roads - you could see them anywhere, anytime."
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
