Police targeting risky drivers

Wyndham police have asked motorists to drive as if their loved ones are on the road ahead (Supplied)

Fatima Halloum

Wyndham police will undertake a series of operations in the municipality as part of Road Safety Week, from May 16-23.

Police say numerous additional patrol units will work alongside general duties and specialist highway patrol units to intercept impaired and high risk drivers.

Road policing inspector Steve Hayes said all motorists should take the opportunity to think about their road behaviour.

“I have unfortunately been to far too many incidents witnessing firsthand the tragedy and devastation that can be caused through unsafe and reckless driving,” he said.

“This includes two fatal collisions within Wyndham PSA [Police Service Area] in the last 18 months where multiple youths under 18 have lost their lives and numerous other instances where people have suffered serious injuries to which they will never fully recover.”

“Often these accidents could be avoided by people doing the right thing, not speeding, not using their mobile phones while driving or simply just paying full attention at all times whilst behind the wheel.”

Patrol units will be targeting drivers impaired by drugs and alcohol, distraction offences such as using mobile phones and other devices, and ensuring pedestrians obey traffic signals.

Operation Takeback, a 48-hour road policing blitz, will occur on Thursday, May 19 and Friday, May 20 and will focus on intercepting high risk drivers speeding, displaying hoon behaviour and causing risks to the safety of other road users.

Frontline police will also participate in Walk Safe to School day on Friday, May 20, by attending primary schools in the area to promote and encourage the benefits of walking to school, and how to do so safely.

National Road Safety Week was created by Safer Australian Roads and Highways’ Peter Frazer, after his 23-year-old daughter was killed in a car crash in 2012.

Details:roadsafetyweek.com.au