What’s happening?
Police in Mackay Whitsundays are focusing on reducing traffic crashes that cause catastrophic injury and death during Queensland Road Safety Week, which runs until 22 August. Drivers can expect extra enforcement and education activities throughout the week as police call on everyone to consider the consequences of their actions behind the wheel.
Why it matters
Mackay Whitsundays District Officer Superintendent Dean Cavanagh said police are committed to reducing road trauma. “The Mackay Whitsundays District has tragically lost 15 people on our roads this year,” Superintendent Cavanagh said.
“But it isn’t just about fatalities. We have seen a rise in those who survive these crashes left with life altering injuries including spinal damage, traumatic brain injuries, and amputations.”
“There is a deep and lasting impact on family and friends who are left to deal with the impact of losing a loved one.”
He stressed the importance of highlighting initiatives like Road Safety Week and urged drivers to remember the Fatal Five. “It’s important for us to highlight initiatives such as these and to urge all road users to remember the Fatal Five and not speed, drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, wear a seatbelt, and not drive while tired or distracted.”
“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility, and we urge all road users to look after each other on our roads.”
Local impact
Police say the community has already seen the effects of dangerous driving, with lives lost and survivors left with permanent injuries. Officers are reinforcing that every driver has a role to play in making roads safer.
By the numbers
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15 people have died on Mackay Whitsundays roads this year.
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Survivors of crashes are facing life-altering injuries such as spinal damage, traumatic brain injuries, and amputations.
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The Queensland Police Service warns the Fatal Five behaviours—speeding, drink and drug driving, not wearing seatbelts, fatigue, and distraction—are major causes of crashes.
Zoom in
Throughout Road Safety Week, Mackay Whitsundays Police are increasing enforcement and running education campaigns to remind drivers of their responsibilities on the road.
Zoom out
The Queensland Police Service remains committed to reducing the number of lives lost across the state. Data shows that serious crashes can be significantly reduced when drivers recognise and avoid the Fatal Five behaviours.
What to look for next?
Queensland Police will continue reinforcing safe driving practices beyond Road Safety Week. More information on road safety and the Fatal Five can be found at Queensland Police Fatal Five.
