In a bid to ensure safety for motorists, Police Minister Neil Roberts said research had shown that unlicensed and unregistered motorists were three times more likely to be involved in a traffic crash.

 

"It is these offences that can be targeted by ANPR technology," he said.

 

According to the minister, the Queensland Police Service undertook a 12-month trial of the technology, which was then evaluated by the Centre for Accident Research and Road Safety.

 

"CARRSQ's evaluation found that ANPR technology is of benefit for use in road traffic operations and proved it was useful in targeting offences that are detrimental to road safety," he said.

 

One ANPR unit had already been purchased and would be used during the Easter school holidays.

 

"The Queensland Police Service is currently in the process of purchasing additional units in the hope of having at least one unit in every police region across the state by mid 2012," he said.

 

According to Mr Roberts the start of the Easter school holiday period, which would see an increase in traffic on the roads as Queenslanders took the opportunity to visit friends and family and take a short vacation.

 

"Last year 11 people lost their lives in road crashes during the Easter school holiday period - two during the traditional Easter long weekend," he said.

 

"The government, police and emergency services agencies strongly urge motorists to take every precaution possible and survive their drive this Easter."

 

Ambulance Commissioner David Melville said road traffic crashes accounted for 154 patients being transported to hospital during the four day Easter period last year.