Make safety a priority on the roads this long weekend

With the October long weekend approaching, Acting Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Leeanne Enoch has urged Queenslanders to be extra cautious on the roads.

“We all love to get away on long weekends and hit the beaches and camping grounds, or visit family and friends,” Ms Enoch said.

“But more people on the roads can mean a greater risk for road users.

“Queensland’s road toll is already at 177 – and I want to ensure we don’t add to this terrible tragedy. A life lost or impacted by serious injury is one too many.

“With Queensland school holidays also drawing to a close this weekend, I expect many families to be out and about.

“I appeal for drivers across the state to avoid the fatal five: speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, failing to wear a seatbelt, driving while tired, and being distracted by mobile phones.

Ms Enoch also urged recreational motorcycle riders to travel safely this weekend, following the deaths of three motorcyclists across three days last week.

“Motorcycle riders and their passengers are one of the most vulnerable road user groups and continue to be over‑represented in the Queensland road toll,” she said.

“Many will take advantage of the long weekend to hit the state’s popular motorcycle riding routes and I urge them to use their sixth sense and ride safely.”

Ms Enoch said the Queensland Government was committed to road safety and lowering the road toll.

“Our goal is to drastically reduce the number of deaths and serious injuries on our roads, through programs like the Join the Drive campaign championed by Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey. “But this goal can’t be achieved be achieved by government alone.

“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility. If we all make a little effort, together we can ensure Queenslanders get home safely.”

Tips to make a difference on the road.

Watch your speed - With nearly half of all speed-related crashes occurring at just 10 km/hr over the speed limit, it’s important we change the way we look at speed not only for the holiday periods, but every time we get behind the wheel.

• Rest up, don't drink up - Plan to get plenty of sleep the night before a road trip and avoid drinking alcohol all together. You'll sleep better and drive safer the next day.
• Park your calls - Switch your phone to silent or flight mode on the road. If you have a passenger make them your designated texter and get them to take your calls.
• Stay focused and avoid driving tired - Plan rest stops every two hours and take a break for at least 15 minutes when you stop. Swap drivers if you can and don't drive for more than 10 hours in one day.
• Service for safety - Before you hit the road, make sure your vehicle has been serviced and is safe. Plus it's a great idea to check your tyres, water and oil before you go.
• Plan your journey and check the road ahead - Information on road closures, roadworks and conditions can help you avoid delays and get there sooner. Call 13 19 40 or visit www.131940.qld.gov.au for info
• For more information visit: www.jointhedrive.qld.gov.au

Media contact: Daniel Lato 0438 830 201