Queensland police out in force for Easter road blitz

Queensland police out in force for Easter road blitz
http://www.news.com.au/queensland-police-out-in-force-for-easter-road-blitz/story-e6freoof-1226314862846

THE biggest Easter road safety blitz in Queensland starts today.
Covert and marked speed cameras, random breath test patrols and thousands of police officers will sweep the state's roads.

But the police will also turn the heat up on drivers with their automatic number plate recognition system boasting updated and improved software.

The camera system snaps a passing vehicle's number plate and compares it to plates listed in the police database as unregistered, stolen or belonging to an unlicensed driver.

In a matter of seconds, a nearby secondary patrol car can then be notified to intercept vehicles of interest.

Police said improved technology provided clearer pictures and a greater number of images to be processed. This Easter, more than 3000 cars an hour will be scanned, with police targeting unregistered and disqualified drivers.

State Traffic Chief Superintendent Bob Gee said unregistered vehicles and disqualified drivers were over-represented in serious traffic crashes. In the past five years, 10 per cent of all fatal crashes involved unlicensed driver.

With the early start to school holidays, police have accelerated the road safety campaign ahead of the official national Easter period, which starts Thursday.

"Motorists are eager at this time of year to get to their destinations and enjoy the break," Chief Supt Gee said.

"We'd ask that they consider the impact of poor driving decisions, not only on themselves but on their families and other motorists."

So far 56 lives have been lost on Queensland roads in 2012 - two ahead of the same time last year.

"That is 56 lives too many," Chief Supt Gee said.

"Be patient, concentrate and focus on the task of driving safely. With people travelling to holiday destinations within Queensland and interstate, it is important motorists take care, obey road rules and be aware of driver fatigue."

A Queensland Police drug patrol unit will also conduct random roadside drug tests throughout the campaign.