Fast and Furious on Our Roads as Reports of Road Crime Increases
Road rage, drink driving, hooning and driving while disqualified are among the most common reports made to Crime Stoppers Queensland in 2021.
New crime statistics reveal a 64% spike in reports of road incidents across the state, with 1,280 calls made to Crime Stoppers Queensland in 2021, compared with 781 in 2020.
As thousands of Queenslanders get behind the wheel for the Summer holidays, the new data is a timely reminder for drivers to remain vigilant, drive to the conditions and be safe on the roads.
Of the 33,497 reports made to Crime Stoppers Queensland last year, 1,280 were related to road offences. This could include getting behind the wheel under the influence, dangerous driving, road rage and hooning.
Crime Stoppers Queensland Director Greg Beale said as drivers returned to the road in 2021, so too did road policing incidents, with reports of road-related crime recording the biggest increase of all reports made between January-November.
“In 2021, many Queenslanders returned to the office, ventured further afield and genuinely spent more time in the car,” he said.
“During the school holidays, with more vehicles on the road, it is more important than ever to stay safe, abide by the road rules and report any road-related crimes to Crime Stoppers Queensland.”
The new crime reporting data also reveals that drug offences are the most reported crime to Crime Stoppers Queensland with 11,162 reports made in 2021. The most common drug seized by police was cannabis, followed by amphetamines. Reports of theft second on the list at 1,456, followed by road policing, offences against a person at 1,267 and weapon offences at 932.
“An increase in online reporting to Crime Stoppers Queensland of suspicious or criminal activity is a positive reminder that people trust the work of the organisation and want to ensure the safety of our communities,” said Mr Beale.
“We encourage Queenslanders to look out for one another this Summer season and continue sharing information with us. You could have critical knowledge that could help solve a crime, or help keep dangerous drivers off our roads.”
Crime Stoppers Queensland research shows that one in four Queenslanders with information about illegal activity report to Crime Stoppers as they have the option to remain anonymous.
As a community organisation and registered charity, Crime Stoppers Queensland relies on corporate partnerships, government funding and community donations.