Shock figure linked to common act
In line with National Road Safety Week, Victorian police will target roadways across the state using handheld speed measurement guns for speeding motorists and automatic radar technology for speeding cars.
Fatalities caused by speeding have increased since last year, with 23 deaths in 2024.
Road policing Assistant Commissioner Glenn Weir said there will be an 'increased focus' on speed across the state, starting Monday.
'Motorists can expect to see police with their speed guns out on highways, freeways and roads,' he said.
'If a police car passes you on a highway today, your speed will likely be checked.
'This highly visible presence is not only about detecting speedsters but also deterring others from making the same mistake.'
The initiative, which runs from May 11 to May 18, will include daily themes to highlight the impacts of road trauma and the importance of safe driving habits -- with today being speed.
A number of other operations will also be enforced by the police during high-risk periods in addition to an 'anywhere, anytime' deterrent approach.
Every year about 1200 people are killed on the road, with another 40,000 seriously injured.
In Victoria alone, almost a quarter of all fatal collisions have occurred with 284 lives lost in 2024.
Speeding has contributed to at least 45 of these deaths and noted to be the most common form of non-compliance among motorists.
Police are urging road users to slow down with reduced visibility and damp weather expected in the incoming months.
'Today and every day we ask road users to slow down and travel at the speed limit – it's that simple,' Mr Weir said.
'Everyone has a role to play in reducing trauma on our roads.'
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