The Royal Automobile Club of Queensland (RACQ) has reported a sharp increase in near misses involving its tow trucks, urging motorists to obey the 'Move Over, Slow Down' laws. Between November 2025 and April 2026, there were 29 near misses—more than triple the number from the same period the previous year.
RACQ Deputy Chief Executive Glenn Toms said roadside operators are there to help, and drivers must legally move over and slow down when they see flashing lights. 'We can't have motorists making these situations worse by not following their obligations to give them safe space,' he said.
The warning comes during National Road Safety Week, as Queensland faces a deadly year on the roads. So far, 125 people have died—a 30 per cent increase compared to the same time last year. The RACQ warns that 330 people could die if the trend continues.
Queensland Police Chief Superintendent Mark Wheeler said first responders feel the loss deeply and are targeting high-risk behaviors like speeding, distracted driving, and not wearing seatbelts. Vulnerable road users, including pedestrians and cyclists, continue to represent a disproportionate number of fatalities.
