Police are ramping up their presence on Sunshine Coast roads for summer.
Operation Mistletoe launched on Friday to help foster safer roads for drivers, riders and pedestrians during the traditionally busy Christmas and school holiday season.
This includes covert and overt police motorcycles, fitted with mobile radars, to provide a targeted and tactical high-visibility surge in road safety enforcement.
As of December 13, 287 lives had been lost on Queensland roads this year. That is 20 more lives lost compared to the same time last year.
Thirteen of those lives have been lost on Sunshine Coast roads.
In addition, more than 6000 people have been seriously injured on Queensland roads this year or are facing long-term trauma and hardship.
Sunshine Coast District Officer Acting Superintendent Chris Toohey said the high number of fatalities called for an increased police presence on the roads.
“Each life lost is a tragedy and not something police take lightly,” he said.
“With increased traffic on our roads over the summer holidays, we need to counteract that with an increased police presence and that’s what this high visibility traffic enforcement operation will provide, including a surge in police motorbikes across the state.
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“Our data shows 95 per cent of fatal crashes are a result of the fatal five: speeding, impairment, distraction, failing to wear a seatbelt, and fatigue.
“That means, most crashes are preventable so I urge you to educate yourself on the key factors that can cause a crash, and do everything you can to avoid them.
“This is not just for your own safety, but also for the safety of your passengers, other road users and pedestrians.
“The Sunshine Coast community can expect to see more police on both the roads and beaches.
“Locally, we know dangerous and reckless driving on our beaches is a safety concern for police and the wider community.
“This is your reminder that road rules apply on the beach. If you wouldn’t do it on the Bruce Highway, don’t do it on the sand.
“Also, with some rain on parts of the coast today and more predicated this weekend, a reminder to all road users to drive to conditions, prioritise safety and remember: If It’s flooded, forget It.
“Let’s work together to make our roads safer for everyone this Christmas.”
