By Matthew Sims
Police are advising motorists to take extra care on roads during the Queen’s Birthday long weekend, as wet and wintry conditions continue on roads across Hume and Whittlesea.
Operation Regal is running until midnight on Tuesday, June 7, which will see police targeting speeding and alcohol and drug-impaired drivers.
Victoria Police Road Policing Assistant Commissioner Glenn Weir said slippery roads and poor visibility will add extra challenges to road users over the long weekend.
“Long weekends are historically high-risk periods on our roads, and the Queen’s Birthday long weekend presents additional challenges,” he said.
“Whether you’re travelling across the state this weekend or heading to the alpine regions, please take extra care on the roads and be sure to drive to the conditions.”
Police will also be focusing on major arterials and highways heading to the state’s alpine regions, with a high number of visitors anticipated for the official Queen’s Birthday opening weekend of Victoria’s snow season. Police are urging motorists to monitor the conditions and ensure it is safe to travel, slow down and leave extra space when driving in the wet and use headlights in bad weather to help see and be seen.
Snowgoers should also ensure their vehicle is equipped to travel on alpine roads, including carrying and using appropriate wheel chains.
Asst Comm Weir said with 16 pedestrian deaths recorded so far this year, it is essential that all road users take extra care over the long weekend.
“As we approach the halfway point of the year, there have already been 105 lives lost on Victorian roads in 2022,” he said.
“We’re now at a critical point in determining whether we can turn this year around.
“With more police back on the roads, you should expect to be caught if you’re disregarding the road rules”.
Details: www.police.vic.gov.au/road-safety-0
