Plea to halt road toll this Christmas

Police are urging motorists to avoid becoming a statistic this festive season after a high number of crashes this year and 13 deaths.

Moreton Forensic Crash Unit has been called to 74 traffic crashes with 43 resulting in injuries, 18 serious injuries and 13 fatalities.

Officers say the fatal five – speeding, drug and drink driving, not wearing a seatbelt, being distracted and driving while fatigued – all contribute to road crashes.

Driving to road conditions and obeying traffic regulations are also vital to road safety.

Redcliffe Police Acting OIC/Senior Sergeant Siva Chetty says the festive season is a high-risk time of the year with more cars on the road and drivers becoming impatient as they navigate their journey and delays caused by congestions, crashes and road works.

“With Christmas parties and functions throughout the festive season, if you are having a few drinks, ensure you have a plan for getting home, whether that be public transport, taxi or uber and remember to look after your mates,” Acting Sen-Sgt Chetty says.

Tips for a safe journey this festive season include:

• Plan for potential delays and allow extra time for travel 

• Be prepared. Have sufficient fuel and supplies (food and water) if you get delayed somewhere

• Make sure your car is fit for purpose for the journey. Are you towing something? Are you aware of your weight/towing requirements/limits? Is your car overloaded?

• Make sure your car servicing is up-to-date, and your tyres are in good condition.

Moreton District Crime Prevention Co-ordinator Sergeant Sarah Grayson says it can be a stressful time for motorists.

“There are so many people on the road trying to get away to see family or have a holiday, so it is important to plan your journey,” Sergeant Grayson says.

“Allow extra time for any roadworks, congestion and potential accidents or breakdowns on the roads. There could be delays because of these reasons. Be courteous – everyone is trying to get to their destination.”

Sergeant Grayson says police patrols and enforcement will increase during the holiday period, with a focus on all fatal five offences.

“We’re also reminding drivers that if you have been out drinking the night before, you might not be OK to drive the next morning,” she says. 

The Queensland Fire Department, whose officers conduct swift water rescues, is urging motorists to avoid floodwater during extreme weather this summer.

Between November 1, 2023, and April 30, 2024, the department received more than 290 calls to water rescues.

A spokesperson says officers rescue more people from water than fire.

Swiftwater, moving more than 2km/hr, has enough power to sweep vehicles and people from roadways.