Police tell drivers slow down and rest

Queensland Police have launched Operation Yankee Easter Break, calling on motorists to prioritise safety as families travel during the holidays.

School breaks see an increase in traffic, raising the risk of poor driving behaviour leading to serious and fatal crashes. 73 people have died on Queensland roads this year.

Operation Yankee Easter Break will see high visibility patrols and sustained police presence on roads during this busy holiday period.

Expect high-visibility patrols on highways, regional roads and major travel routes, supported by roadside breath testing, speed checks and targeted patrols.

Police will also be stationed at rest stops across the state, encouraging drivers to take regular breaks to combat fatigue – a leading contributor to serious crashes.

“Fatigue remains one of the key factors linked to fatal crashes, alongside speeding, drink and drug driving, distraction, and failing to wear a seatbelt,” Chief Superintendent of Road Policing Group Mark Wheeler said.

“With many Queenslanders embarking on long road trips this Easter, drivers are reminded even a momentary lapse in concentration can have devastating consequences.

“A driver who is sleep deprived can be impaired at the same level of someone over the legal alcohol limit, severely impacting judgement in speed and stopping times, creating moments of distraction and lane drifting.”

In “extreme cases,” this can lead to falling asleep at the wheel, with potentially catastrophic consequences, Chief Superintendent Wheeler said.

Drivers are reminded to stop every two hours for at least 15 minutes to rest and recharge.

Police are also reminding parents and guardians to take practical, proactive steps to help safeguard children these Easter school holidays.

This includes using the Parent and Guardian Disclosure pathway under Daniel’s Law.

“If a parent or guardian has concerns about a person who may have unsupervised contact with their child, they can apply for information by making a Parent and Guardian Disclosure application,” Queensland Police Deputy Commissioner Cheryl Scanlon said.

“Parents and guardians should visit the Daniel’s Law website to learn more about safeguarding or to make a free, online application to help keep Queensland children safe.”

The RACQ says poor preparation can derail a trip with almost a third of caravanners waiting for a breakdown before doing maintenance.

RACQ research also shows 41 per cent of caravanners failed to refresh their driving skills.

General Manager Automotive and Mobility Services Mark Boswell said: “Ideally, you should be servicing your caravan at least every 12 months and if you go off-road and over sandy terrain or through water, you may require more frequent servicing.

“Before hitting the road, caravanners should take the time to check their tyre pressure and condition, lights and indicators, brakes, water and gas systems, along with the tow hitch and wheel bearings."