By Molly Magennis
Police are pleading with Victorians to stay safe on the roads this Christmas.
Police have launched operation Roadwise, a statewide road policing effort targeting high-risk driving behaviour over the Christmas period.
Victoria has already surpassed the number of lives lost on Victorian roads in 2020 when 211 deaths were recorded, a Victoria Police statement said.
Police will be out and about patrolling major roads and highways, and with a particular focus on impaired driving, motorists should expect to see Alcohol and Drug Testing vehicles on the roads.
Operation Roadwise will also see police targeting speeding drivers.
Last year more than 6200 speeding offences were detected over the Christmas and New Year’s period.
The operation commenced yesterday and will conclude at 23:59pm on Sunday 26 December.
Assistant Commissioner Road Policing Glenn Weir said: “For most of us, this is an exciting time of year with holidays fast approaching and festive cheer in full swing.
“But for the families of the 226 people who are honoured with this Christmas tree it’s a sobering reminder that their loved one will not be with them.
“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility. It’s up to all of us to ensure we reach our destination safely.
“While we’re asking everyone to slow down, not drink or take drugs and drive, and avoid distractions like mobile phones – rest assured police will also be doing our bit and ramping up enforcement on Victorian roads.
“Please, drive safely. We don’t want to see any more names added to this Christmas tree.”
