The Sunshine Coast Highway Patrol will be out in force during the holidays, as part of Operation Easter Break.
District officer superintendent Craig Hawkins said police will patrol roads – and beaches – focused on combatting the fatal five.
“We’ve already seen 65 lives lost on Queensland roads in 2024 (current March 26), with one of those on the Sunshine Coast,” he said.
“Each of these deaths is a tragedy.
“As we head into the school holidays, the roads will be especially busy with lots of holiday makers on the move.
“I’m urging everyone to be patient when you are on the roads, especially with the recent wet weather.
“We don’t want any more lives impacted by traffic crashes this Easter and are encouraging everyone to slow down, drive responsibly and to the conditions.”
Superintendent Hawkins also said officers will be deployed to patrol Noosa North Shore and Double Island Point.
Related story: Beach driving study starts as police issue Easter plea
“A reminder that the road rules apply on the beach,” Superintendent Hawkins said.
“Driving on the beach can be dangerous and challenging so it’s important to drive to the conditions and be vigilant of people, tides and changing terrain.
“The fatal five applies everywhere.
“Be aware of and avoid the fatal five behaviours – speeding, drink or drug driving, not wearing a seatbelt, driving tired and distracted driving.
“Speeding and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol are major contributors to fatal and serious traffic crashes.
“If you are planning to drink, always plan a safe way home in advance.
“By getting behind the wheel under the influence, you are not only risking your own life but also the lives of your passengers, other road users and pedestrians.”
Police conducted 238,154 breath tests and 8197 drug tests in January and February across Queensland. Police also issued 20,097 infringement notices for speeding during the same period.
“The faster you drive, the longer it takes you to stop and react to hazards, and the more likely you are to be involved in a serious crash,” superintendent Hawkins said.
“Speeding doesn’t mean you will get to your destination faster; it means you are more likely not to get there at all.”
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