Police across the Northern Region are stepping up high visibility road operations, warning motorists that speeding, impaired driving, distraction and failing to wear a seatbelt will be actively targeted.
Inspector Metropolitan West Patrol Group Renee Hanrahan said police remained firmly focused on prevention and the role every driver played in keeping the community safe.
"Road safety is a shared responsibility through the choices we make every time we get behind the wheel," Inspector Hanrahan said.
"Police have been highly visible and proactive this year, conducting 81,381 roadside breath tests and 1,519 roadside drug tests, of which 25,347 were conducted by Highway Patrol.
"Through these efforts police have made 529 positive detections for drink and drug driving, potentially averting these drivers from serious consequences that would have lasting impacts on themselves, their families and other road users.
"However across the region, the Fatal Five - speeding, drink driving, drug driving, distraction, and failing to wear a seatbelt - continue to be the leading contributors to serious crashes.
"In coming weeks, officers will continue high visibility patrols across the Northern region with a clear focus on the Fatal Five," Inspector Hanrahan said.
"As part of Operation X-ray Annex, officers will conducting proactive roadside breath testing, drug testing and compliance checks, alongside visible patrols on major highways and within local communities," Inspector Hanrahan said.
"No matter where you are in North Queensland, whether on rural highways or in regional cities, you can expect police to be out there making sure everyone is doing their part to keep our region safe."
"We do not want to see North Queensland's road toll increase by a single fatality, so before you turn the key take a moment to consider your responsibility not just to yourself, but to your passengers and to every other road user."
Police urge anyone who witnesses dangerous driving to report it to Policelink on 131 444 or, in an emergency, call Triple Zero (000).
The Queensland Police Service is committed to reducing the number of lives lost on our roads.
Every choice you make behind the wheel, matters. Driving under the influence, speeding, driving distracted or not wearing a seatbelt puts your life – and the lives of others – at serious risk. These dangerous behaviours will not be tolerated. Queenslanders can expect police – anywhere, anytime.
Safer roads start with you.
