Queensland Police has launched a back-to-school road safety campaign as thousands of students begin the new school year today (28 January).
Head of Road Policing Command, Assistant Commissioner Mike Keating said police would be reminding motorists to remain vigilant and alert in school zones.
“The back-to-school period is traditionally a busy time on the State’s road network, particularly in the vicinity of schools, including student pedestrians and cyclists travelling to and from school,” Assistant Commissioner Keating said.
“Police will be coordinating a State-wide traffic policing initiative designed to reduce serious injury and fatal traffic crashes.”
He said the initiative would occur around school zones from today until Friday (31 January) which would also see the official end of the Christmas-New Year road safety campaign, Operation Romeo Sleigh.
“Police emphasis will be focused on, but not limited to, direct community attention to speed, impaired driving, fatigue, seat belt use, driver distraction or inattention, and pedestrian and bicycle safety,” Asst Commissioner Keating said.
“I urge parents and guardians to familiarise themselves with school drop-off and pick-up practices and to obey the road rules around school zones, in particular the 40km/h speed zone.”
Minister for Police, Mark Ryan said the first day of school was a very exciting day, particularly for students who were attending school for the first time.
“We are urging motorists to slow down and abide by the reduced speed limits while approaching and driving through marked school zones,” Mr Ryan said.
