State-wide road safety operation zeroes in on preventable deaths

Minister for Police and Corrective Services and Minister for Fire and Emergency Services, Mark Ryan MP joined Assistant Commissioner Ben Marcus today to launch the Queensland Police Service’s annual winter school holiday road safety campaign, Operation Cold Snap.

This state-wide operation will be in effect from today and will continue until Friday, July 16 with an increased policing presence on all major roadways.

Minister Ryan said that the Queensland Police Service would be out in force these school holidays.

“If you’re out on the roads and not adhering to the road rules, you can expect to see police,” Mr Ryan said.

“The operation will look to address preventable incidents, with seat beat wearing, fatigue and speeding at the forefront.”

“Whether you’re heading to some of our beautiful beaches here on the Gold Coast, up north seeking warmer weather or out west to explore; we want drivers to take responsibility for their actions while travelling on the roads for the safety of themselves, their families and others.”

“We are asking the community to help make this a safe and enjoyable break for all.”

Assistant Commissioner Marcus said on average, each year 31 people were killed and 166 seriously injured on Queensland roads as a result of not wearing a seatbelt.

“Putting your seatbelt on when you get in the car should be second nature – it’s such a simple act that can significantly reduce the chances of a fatality in a crash,” Assistant Commissioner Marcus said.

“We have already seen far too many losses on our roads so as Queenslanders and their families embark on their holidays around the state, we are urging them to take responsibility for their actions behind the wheel.”   

Assistant Commissioner Marcus said road users could expect to see police anywhere, anytime, particularly around commonly used thoroughfares like the Bruce and Pacific Highways.

“This year is shaping up to be one of the worst on our roads – we’ve already seen 129 lives lost, which is 19 more than this time last year,” he said.

“We’re seeing a high proportion of lives lost due to preventable factors and motorcycle riders over-represented in fatal crashes – so we’re urging anyone using the roads to be aware.

“Every decision you make on the road counts, with poor driving decisions having direct consequences for you, and your loved ones.

“We know, we’ll be seeing a lot more activity on the road network these holidays, and we want you to get to your destination safely.”

Media contacts 

Minister Ryan’s Office: Ph: (07) 3035 8300

Police Media: Ph: (07) 3015 2444