Police out in force over Queen’s Birthday long weekend

Police Minister Judy Spence and Police Commissioner Bob Atkinson today appealed to people to drive responsibly as thousands take to the roads for the last long weekend before Christmas.

Ms Spence said: “We want to avoid a repeat of last year’s Queen’s Birthday long weekend when 6 people died and 182 people were injured.

“The focus for police this weekend will be inappropriate and drug driving, mobile phone usage, seat belt usage and supporting driver fatigue reduction strategies.

“From midnight tonight until midnight on Monday, police will be out in force across the state doing their best to keep us all safe, but we need to do our part as well.

“There will be an extra 600 police officer hours a day on traffic duties which is equivalent to an additional 76 police officers a day on our roads.

“Most importantly, I urge all motorists to be patient. This weekend will see an increase in traffic on our roads, and if we are all patient and take our time, everyone will be able to get to their destinations in a safe and timely manner.

“The State Government has introduced a number of new measures targeting dangerous drivers as part of its commitment to reducing the road toll.

“Random Roadside Drug Testing was introduced in December last year, while we now have three fixed speed cameras in the south-east area.

“Q-Cars have also been introduced, and have so far proven they are an asset to our fight against dangerous driving behaviour.

“In addition, Vehicle Confiscation Laws for repeat offenders go state wide next month. Motorists who repeatedly drink drive, drive unlicenced or disqualified, or drive unregistered and illegally modified vehicles now face having their vehicles confiscated,” Ms Spence said.

Commissioner Atkinson said: “Since 2004 the number of drink drivers caught on our roads over the long weekend has risen to 533 being detected last year.

“Irresponsible behaviour such as drink and drug-driving, speeding, or using your mobile phone while driving are dangers not only to drivers, but to everyone using our roads.

“Just taking some simple precautions can reduce your risk of having a crash. For example, plan your trip in advance and schedule regular rest stops to prevent fatigue,” Commissioner Atkinson said.

Ms Spence said the road toll as at midnight Thursday was 128 … 32 fewer fatalities than at the same time last year.

“The Queensland Government has set an ambitious target this year of reducing the road toll by 52.

“This campaign, supported by the Courier Mail, is called “Save a life a Week”.

“After 23 weeks we’re well above our target.

“But we cannot become complacent … it only takes one bad week on the roads to push the toll up again.

“I urge all Queenslanders taking to the road this weekend to do their part for road safety, and let’s move towards a fatality-free weekend,” Ms Spence said.

Media contacts: Minister’s Office:3239 6218

Police Media: 30152444