Remember, beaches are roads

Beaches may seem far removed from the region’s highways, but they are still governed by the same road rules, say Moreton District Police.

Seat belts must be worn; drive on the left; obey speed limits; don’t drive under the influence of drugs of alcohol – all must be followed.

“Road rules apply, stay alert,” says Senior Sergeant Garth Peak, Officer-in-Charge Road Policing Unit.

“Wear your seatbelt, watch your speed. On beaches be aware of pedestrians, sunbakers and other vehicles which could be there.

“Enjoy your time on a beach, but make sure you are doing the right thing.”

To help those planning to drive on the region’s beaches, Police have a list of tips based around the words Beach Driving.

Buckle up – passengers must wear safety belts

Ensure you respect wildlife

Avoid rocks, pools and wash outs

Choose the correct 4WD gear

High tides can leave you stranded

Don’t drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Remote medical assistance can be hours away

Invest in vehicle recovery equipment

Vehicle permits are required

Item storage – don’t overload your vehicle

Night driving is not advisable

Give way to pedestrians and watch for sunbakers

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) rangers work with Queensland Police to ensure safe driving practices and socially acceptable behaviour.

All visitors must be vigilant when driving on a beach and remember it is designed as a road and all road rules apply. Vehicles must be registered, and drivers must be licenced.

To assist four-wheel drivers visiting beaches, The Department of Environment and Science (DES) has a series of short safety video clips and a printable Driving on Sand: Safety Guide.

The DES safety tips include:

• Drive on harder sand between the waterline and the high tide mark for the firmest surface
• Do not drive when tired
• Ensure your vehicle is mechanically sound
• In remote beach areas travel with at least one other vehicle to reduce the risk in case of trouble.

For more information visit: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/before-you-visit/visit-with-care/four-wheel-drive-with-care/driving-on-sand

The warning comes just days after Road Safety Week the Moreton Police District, with Superintendent John Hallam urging motorists to “think hard” about their driving following 11 fatalities on our roads in July and August – 50 per cent higher than the previous 12 months.
Central to the campaign has been awareness around the Fatal Five:

• Speeding
• Seat Belts
• Drink/Drug Driving
• Fatigue
• Distraction

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