Students return to Queensland’s schools this week and so do 40km/h speed zones around schools.

Police are urging drivers to exercise both patience and caution on the roads to protect some of the most vulnerable in our community.

School speed zones across the state typically capture the high-traffic hours around a school and are clearly signed and are in place to create a safe environment for our children.

With last year’s number of lives lost on the road reaching 299, the highest number in the last decade, Acting Assistant Commissioner Chris Stream is pleading with drivers to obey the rules so everyone, especially our children, can get home safely.

“Always be aware of the speed limits and your surroundings when travelling through school zones, as some of the commuters include children crossing the road on their way to, or from, school,” said Acting Assistant Commissioner Stream.

“Last year’s lives lost reached a record we did not want and this year, I hope to see more safe driving practiced.

“School speed zones are in place to protect our children, who are not as familiar with the roads as we are and motorists can expect to see police out enforcing the reduced speed limits.

“Please be patient as you drive and if you live near a school zone, leave a few minutes earlier to account for the lower speeds.”

Since the start of 2023, 13 lives have been lost on Queensland roads.