Motorists can expect Queensland Police Service (QPS) officers to be highly visible and proactive on the roads these school holidays, with the launch of Operation X-Ray Cold Snap.
The statewide road safety campaign runs until Sunday 13 July, and is focused on saving lives and preventing road trauma by addressing dangerous driving behaviours and reinforcing the Fatal Five safety message.
The operation will include a combination of high-visibility patrols, enforcement responses, and static roadside testing right across the state.
Police will be active on highways, in regional towns, tourist hotspots and back roads. Drivers and riders can expect to see police anywhere and at any time.
This year's road safety operation places a strong focus on vulnerable road users, including motorcycle and bicycle riders, e-scooter users, and pedestrians such as children, runners and parents with prams.
QPS Road Policing and Regional Support Command, Acting Chief Superintendent Garrath Channells said police will be taking a zero-tolerance approach to poor driving behaviour during the operation.
"One hundred and thirty-six people have tragically lost their lives on Queensland roads this year alone, with many of these fatalities the result of speeding or dangerous driving," Acting Chief Superintendent Garrath Channells said.
"We are committed to keeping Queenslanders safe and that means holding road users accountable.
"Speeding, driving distracted, impaired or fatigued, or not wearing a seatbelt correctly can all have tragic consequences. These behaviours are especially dangerous for those who are most exposed - vulnerable road users."
The winter school holidays are traditionally one of the busiest periods on Queensland roads, with many families and holidaymakers travelling long distances to and from holiday destinations.
Forensic Crash Unit Acting Senior Sergeant Patricia Brennan said the consequences of poor decisions on the road are devastating and long lasting.
"Some of the most difficult incidents we respond to involve crashes with vulnerable road users," Acting Senior Sergeant Brennan said.
QPS is reminding all drivers and riders to plan ahead and take regular breaks during long road trips.
"Fatigue severely impairs response times and can have deadly consequences. Please take the time to rest, revive and arrive alive," Acting Senior Sergeant Brennan said. "Road safety is everyone's responsibility. Whether you are driving across the state or just heading down the road, your choices matter.
"By slowing down, staying alert and respecting others on the road, we can all help make Queensland roads safer so everyone returns home at the end of the school holidays."
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
