Acting Senior Sergeant Shaun Hillier said they were expecting a large influx of drivers on the roads as Christmas approached and as COVID-19 restrictions continued to ease.
“We’re expecting roads to be really busy,” he said.
“A lot of metro people will be travelling to regional areas.”
He also said many people had been driving less often in lockdown, which could contribute to dangerous driving.
“We want people to be conscious of the conditions and the fact their driving skills and abilities may have diminished during COVID restrictions,” Sen Sgt Hillier said.
According to data from the Transport Accident Commission, 22 people died on regional Victorian roads in the two months between December 1, 2020, and January 31, 2021.
They account for 18 per cent of all deaths on regional Victorian roads in the past 12 months.
Highway patrols will be targeting speeding, impaired and unauthorised driving with an increased police presence in the region.
“If you are driving a vehicle or riding a motorcycle on the roads, you can expect to be tested for alcohol or illicit drugs,” Sen Sgt Hillier said.
Sen Sgt Hillier said they wanted drivers to plan trips properly to avoid rushing to their destination.
“We want people to be conscious,” he said.
“Allow sufficient time, manage fatigue and don’t drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.”
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