With the State's road toll currently double what it was at the same time last year and school returning for 2012 this week, motorists are being encouraged to be extra vigilant in a bid to save lives on our roads.
Police Minister Neil Roberts said 18 people had lost their lives on Queensland roads since January 1, nine more than at the same time last year.
"To have had 18 people lose their lives in the first 21 days of the year is tragic," Mr Roberts said.
"Each death also has an enormous impact on the family and friends of the deceased.
"Drive at or below the speed limit; never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs; don't drive tired; always wear a seatbelt; concentrate on the road; and drive to the road conditions."
Mr Roberts said that with school returning for the New Year this week, it was vital that motorists took extra c are around school zones.
"From this week, hundreds of thousands of school children will again be walking, running and playing around schools, including an estimated 60,000 children who are going to school for the first time," he said.
"Young people can behave and act unpredictably, that's why it's so important for motorists to be extra vigilant around schools."
Police Commissioner Bob Atkinson said the Queensland Police Service would be out in force in school zones this week.
Officers will be targeting:
• School zones, including speeding offences in 40kmh zones
• Parking and no standing zone offences in relation to the drop off and pickup of children at schools
• School crossings
• any other offences detected around schools.
"Police make no apology for enforcing the road rules on Queensland roads, particularly when it comes to school zones where young people are particularly at-risk," he said.
Commissioner Atkinson said the QPS also urged parents to park in designated areas to ensure that children are not put at risk by walking out onto roadways between parked cars.
"Parents should also familiarise themselves with school drop-off and pick-up practices and discuss with their children rules for school zones," he said.
"Following the directions of school crossing supervisors, and allowing a little extra time for your trip because of the increase in traffic around schools, will go a long way towards ensuring the safety of children on their return to school."
All children should also wear an approved safety helmet when riding a bike, always use pedestrian crossings and stop to look before crossing the road.
Parents also should to take the time to educate their children in the basics of road safety, particularly children starting school for the first time.
