The Department of Transport and Main Roads is urging drivers to take care on the roads as the summer holiday season begins.
Its warning comes as four people died in three crashes on the Gold Coast in recent days.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Mark Bailey said it had been a dark day for families and first responders on the Gold Coast.
“In the space of seven hours, four people lost their lives in the same corner of our State,” Mr Bailey said.
“Weeks out from Christmas, it is an absolute tragedy for the victims and their loved ones who have, like all of us, already endured one of the toughest years Queensland has seen for a long time.”
He said that as the school holidays approached and more Queenslanders were expected to embark on driving holidays within the State in December and January, drivers needed to be vigilant.
“It only takes a second, one moment of distraction or lapse in concentration, to cause a crash,” he said.
“Sadly, after one of the best years in Queensland’s history on our roads last year, 2020 will be one of its worst with 245 lives lost so far.”
He said every time a person got behind the wheel they should make sure they were not tired, sticking to the speed limit, had not been drinking or taking drugs, were wearing their seatbelt and had put their phone away.
“There will be more drivers on our roads driving longer distances over the next few months,” Mr Bailey said.
“Now is the time to think about your plans to drive these holidays and plan your trip so you and your loved ones get to your destination safely.”
