Queensland police have issued a stern warning to road users after a horror school-holiday period resulted in 21 deaths, close to 2000 drivers being caught drink driving and more than 750 drivers returning positive drug readings across the state.

But the Far North Queensland region has produced a more encouraging result in comparison to the rest of the state, with three deaths on our roads so far this year, down from seven at the same time last year, and also the lowest figure in five years for this period.

Transport and Main Roads Department figures show there have been 82 deaths on Queensland roads this year, which includes 40 drivers, 10 passengers, 19 motorcyclists, two bike riders, two mobility devices, and 11 truck-related deaths.

Police are urging motorists to take care on the roads now that school is back, calling the Easter school holiday period “devastating” for fatal road crashes.

Acting Chief Superintendent Garrath Channells said any life lost on our roads is a tragedy.

“The devastating reality is that some families spent their Easter holidays grieving their loved ones instead of getting to spend time together over the break,” he said.

“It is disappointing to still see so many people taking risks and making bad decisions on our roads.”

Police conducted close to 120,000 roadside breath tests and 7500 drug tests since the start of the school holidays on Friday, April 4, up to the last day on Monday, April 21.

Of those tested, close to 2000 drivers were found to be over the legal alcohol limit and more than 750 drivers returned a positive result for drugs and had to undergo further testing. 

Police also issued close to 14,000 infringement notices for road-rule breaches.