THERE are 279 families with an empty seat at the Christmas dinner table due to road accidents this year.
Police have launched a road safety blitz on roads from midnight Friday (December 9) through to the end of January.
Acting chief superintendent Chris Stream said the state-wide operation would involve a significant number of highly visible and covert police across the state.
“We want each person who travels on our roads over the Christmas and New Year period to arrive to their loved ones safely,” he said.
“This year we have lost 279 lives on our roads. These are 279 families with an empty seat at Christmas lunch this year.
“Our message to road users is clear – your presence is by far the best gift you can give your family this Christmas.”
Operation Charger will run from midnight Friday, December 9 through to midnight, January 27. The operation will focus on drink and drug driving, speeding and restraints.
“If you decide to drink over the Christmas period, never drive – it’s that simple,” Acting Chief Superintendent Stream said.
“During last year’s enforcement operation, more than 174,000 breath tests were conducted with more than 2,000 drunk drivers detected on Queensland roads.”
“This year, we’re expecting to conduct more breath tests and we have a simple ask for road users – don’t drive if you’ve been drinking. If you make the decision to get behind the wheel after drinking, you can expect to see us.”
Acting Chief Superintendent Stream praised the thousands of drivers who drive responsibly every day.
“We are committed to reducing dangerous behaviours on our roads whether it be through our enforcement operations, education programs or speed camera sites.
“The mindset you get in the car with often determines the decisions you make on your journey.
“While we will be out there, doing our part to keep our roads safe, the decision to drive safely ultimately starts with you.”
Since January 1, 279 lives have been lost on our roads, 11 more than the same period last year.
