Queensland drivers are being urged to slow down around schools with hundreds of students headed back to school on Tuesday.
Acting Police, Fire and Emergency Services Minister John McVeigh said drivers needed to take extra care in schools zones as children were often unpredictable.
“Children may duck out onto the road or misjudge traffic, but by slowing down just a few kilometres you could help prevent a tragedy,” Mr McVeigh said.
“The safety of all road users is a priority and police will be out in force to help keep our children safe as students return to school.
“I ask all drivers to obey all the road rules and take extra care around Queensland schools to help protect our youngest citizens.”
Mr McVeigh said the Newman Government was taking action on road safety, including installing flashing lights at school zones.
“We are on track to deliver our $10 million election commitment to install flashing lights in 300 school zones over 4 years,” he said.
“Flashing lights have been installed at more than 180 school zone since the program started.”
Queensland Police Commissioner Ian Stewart said in 2013 police issued more than 27,500 traffic infringements across Queensland for speeding in school zones.
“Of that number, 5,571 traffic infringements were issued from 1 October to 31 December demonstrating motorists were paying attention to the reduced speed limit around Queensland schools during the peak times,” Commissioner Stewart said.
“It is clear driving at lower speeds causes fewer crashes because road users and pedestrians have more time to make decisions.
“We urge motorists to be extra cautious and drive slowly when approaching children riding their bicycles or walking on the street or near buses.
“By following the directions of school crossing supervisors and allowing a little extra time for your trip due to the increase in traffic around schools, will go a long way towards ensuring the safety of children on their way to or from school.”
