Drivers have been warned to expect police “anywhere, anytime” as a winter school holiday road safety operation begins across Queensland.
Queensland Police said ‘Operation Yankee Cold Snap’ would run from Saturday 27 June to Friday 17 July, targeting dangerous driving during the school holiday travel period.
Police said increased traffic during the holidays raised the risk of serious and fatal crashes, while winter conditions could bring shorter daylight hours, fog and a greater risk of wildlife collisions.
Officers will be highly visible on Queensland roads during the operation, with a focus on speeding and impaired driving.
Emergency Response and Coordination Command Assistant Commissioner Rhys Wildman urged drivers to slow down, drive to conditions and make safe choices.
“Every decision you make behind the wheel matters,” Assistant Commissioner Wildman said.
“One moment of impatience, one decision to speed, or one choice to drive impaired can change lives forever.”
Police said the operation followed Operation Interpose, during which officers conducted more than 364,000 roadside breath tests, with about 2500 people returning positive results.
More than 43,000 traffic infringement notices were also issued statewide for dangerous driving behaviour.
Assistant Commissioner Wildman said alcohol and drugs could continue to affect drivers long after consumption, including the next morning.
“If you’ve been drinking or using drugs, don’t take the risk,” he said.
“Plan a safe alternative, organise a designated driver, catch public transport or arrange a safe ride home.”
Police said drivers should check their speed, avoid driving tired or distracted, wear a seatbelt and take regular breaks.
“Arriving later to your destination is always better than not arriving at all,” Assistant Commissioner Wildman said.
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