Sunshine Coast police last week closed Operation Regain which targeted the dangerous driving behaviours that lead to road trauma.
The month-long operation detected 343 offences which can lead to serious injury or death on local roads, including 273 speeding offences, 21 people failing to wear a seat belt and 11 drivers using a mobile phone.
Acting Superintendent Doug McDonald said 30 drivers were issued infringements for failing to stop at stop signs or red lights.
“We are noticing a trend starting to emerge in our District where failing to stop at signs or red lights are causing crashes,” he said.
“These crashes ultimately come down to a poor decision made by the driver and could easily be prevented.”
During the operation, 53 drink drivers were detected from more than 16,500 tests, as well as 93 drug drivers from 436 tests.
Acting Superintendent McDonald expressed his disappointment at drivers who are willingly impairing their own driving abilities.
“This is a blatant disregard for their own lives, the lives of their passengers and other road users,” he said.
“It is not only up to the driver not to make these decisions but also those around them to discourage this behaviour.
“A lapse in decision making, such as having one more drink or taking drugs, has serious consequences. You could lose it all – your licence, your job or your life.”
Since 1 January, 10 lives have been lost on Sunshine Coast roads with almost 300 people suffering an injury as a result of a crash.
Acting Superintendent McDonald remains committed to educating drivers and enforcing rules to ensure the roads remain a safe place for everyone.
“We want you to arrive safely, whether that’s home to your families or enjoying time with your friends,” he said.
“Expect to see us anywhere at any time.”
