Road safety reminder over Easter long weekend

• In 2024 to date, 68 lives have been lost in road crashes.
• This is 11 more lives lost than the same time last year (57 lives lost as at 27 March 2023).
• Road safety remains a critical priority for the Queensland Government, with more innovative technologies, enforcement and other initiatives rolling out through 2024.

As we enter the mid-way point of the busy Easter holiday period and with school holidays next week, we are urging drivers to please take extra care to ensure everyone gets to their destination safely.

Many people look forward to mini-getaways over the holidays, but with increased traffic there can often be an increase in risky driving behaviour as well.

Crash data tells us there are higher incidences of speeding, drink and drug driving, failing to wear a seatbelt properly, distraction and fatigue over holiday periods. All of these behaviours are major contributors to serious injuries and lives lost on Queensland roads.

Over Easter, the 'Drinking? Never drive' campaign will be running to remind drivers of the harsh consequences if they choose to drink and drive.

Coinciding with Queensland Police Service enforcement activities over Easter, the campaign features a range of fake alcoholic cans like 'RBT IPA', 'Lose your licence lager' and 'Ute Prang & Cola'. These cans reveal the devastating consequences of drinking and driving, right at the point of drinking.

Queenslanders are reminded to enjoy Easter but to take care on our roads, and remember - if you drink and drive, the consequences are in your hands. They can hit hard and change your life forever. So if you’re drinking, never drive.

Every life lost and serious injury has a tragic impact on individuals, families and communities across our State.

The campaign can be seen on TV, social media, radio, online, and on outdoor billboards. It will also reach online audiences through Twitch and via targeted podcasts.

The campaign will continue over the ANZAC Day and Labour Day long weekends.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Transport and Main Roads and Minister for Digital Services Bart Mellish:

"Last year 278 people lost their lives on Queensland roads. That's 278 too many. This year we have already lost far too many people the same way, and there are countless others with injuries.

"Every life lost represents an irreplaceable absence felt by their family during this Easter holiday time.

"Long weekends are meant to be enjoyed, but if you're going to drink alcohol this Easter weekend then please – don't drive.

"Organise a designated driver, or book a taxi or rideshare, or stay the night – don't get behind the wheel and experience one of these devastating consequences.

"I am devastated by the loss of life on our roads and extend my heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives on our roads this past year.

"That's why we are re-running our 'Drinking? Never Drive' campaign which displays a range of consequences of drinking and driving.

"Please, don't drink or drug drive, drive smarter not faster, leave your phone alone, wear your seatbelt properly, and look out for each other on the road. It's just not worth the risk.

"Police will be out across Queensland over the holiday period – if you run the risk, you will be caught."

Explainer/fast fact and or further information:

Tips to stay safe to the roads during the Easter period:

• Drive to the conditions and keep an eye on your speed, every K over can have tragic consequences
• If you drink and drive, the consequences are in your hands. Drinking? Never drive.
• Look out for motorcycle riders, they can be hard to see.
• Always wear your seatbelt, wear it correctly and check your passengers are too.
• Never use your phone when you are driving. It is a distraction and can have dangerous consequences.
• Remember to move over and slow down if you see flashing lights from emergency response vehicles on the road.

In 2024, the Miles Government continues the pursuit of road safety, with priorities including;

• On-road trial of real-time behaviour change technology for illegal Phone use and Tailgating
• Ongoing delivery of the Ride to Zero motorcycle safety program
• An ongoing review of the approach to tackling drug driving
• Enhancing the safe use of vehicles used in the workplace
• Addressing impaired riding of PMDs like e-scooters
• Investigating how Queensland can increase the uptake of safer vehicles in the community.

The Miles Government is committed to continuing to work with local community groups, local governments and police to keep everyone safe as they travel through 2024.

Visit https://streetsmarts.initiatives.qld.gov.au/initiatives/drinking-never-drive/ to see the consequences of drink driving.

Visit www.streetsmarts.initiatives.qld.gov.au to find out more about being safer on our roads.

ENDS

Media contact – Minister Mellish office – 0419 288 284