Queensland Police Urge Caution as School Zones Reopen

As school holidays conclude and students return to classrooms across Queensland, motorists are being urged to exercise caution with the reactivation of school zones. The Queensland Police Service (QPS) has initiated a reminder campaign, emphasizing the importance of road safety in school areas.

The recent Operation X-Ray Cold Snap, conducted over the school holiday period, involved extensive road safety measures including high-visibility patrols. During this operation, authorities conducted over 39,000 breath tests and 2,200 roadside drug tests. Alarmingly, more than 600 drivers were found to be over the legal alcohol limit, while over 450 drivers tested positive for drugs, necessitating further testing. Additionally, over 9,000 Traffic Infringement Notices were issued for serious traffic violations.

Acting Chief Superintendent of Road Policing, Steven Newland, expressed concern over the high number of speeding incidents, particularly among young and inexperienced drivers. Highlighting significant cases, he mentioned an 18-year-old who was caught driving at 177km/h in an 80km/h zone at Park Ridge, and another who was found speeding at 129km/h in a 70km/h zone in Cairns. These incidents, among others, underline the need for increased awareness and responsible driving behavior.

As schools reopen, the QPS is calling on all drivers to adhere to the speed limits and road regulations, particularly in school zones. The initiative is part of a broader commitment to reduce the incidence of road accidents and fatalities. By addressing the ‘Fatal Five’ behaviors—speeding, drink and drug driving, not wearing seatbelts, fatigue, and distraction—the QPS aims to enhance road safety for all Queenslanders.