MOTORCYCLE safety will be the focal point for Victoria Police’s Easter road safety operations.

As part of the nation-wide Operation Crossroads, police motorcycles and four-wheel drives will be patrolling high-road trauma areas around the state over the Easter break.

Police off-road motorbikes will be have a strong presence at popular camping and holiday areas.

Officers from the Victoria Police Solo Unit will be focusing on motorcycle licensing, registration, alcohol and driving behaviour offences in even the most remote locations.

Highway Patrols will also focus on recreational motorcyclists travelling to and from these areas and carparks where they will talk about motorcycle safety issues

Deputy Commissioner Kieran Walshe called for all motorists to keep road safety in the forefront of their mind this Easter.

“Police across Australia and New Zealand began Operation Crossroads today and will continue through until midnight on Monday night,” Mr Walshe said.

“Easter is a time where we see increased traffic on many roads as people head off on holidays or to visit family and friends.

“What we ask is that people plan their journey and drive or ride safely at all times. Be aware of the heightened risks of speed, fatigue, alcohol and distraction over this holiday period.

“If you feel tired – take a rest, not a risk.”

Operation Crossroads Commander Superintendent Neville Taylor said the warning was out that police will be everywhere.

“This week we launched a three-month road enforcement campaign, We are the toll, to take action on 2012’s road toll.

“Our Easter operation is the first of many large-scale operations police will be running as part of this campaign.

“Easter is a high-risk time particularly for motorcycle trauma, with many people using holidays and good weather to get out on the bike.

“We encourage that, but encourage people to do so safely.

“If you are out on the bike this Easter, please, wear the right gear, travel at a safe speed and most importantly – don’t take risks.”

Joining police to launch the operation today is Director of Emergency, Associate Professor Melinda Truesdale from The Royal Melbourne Hospital.

A/Prof Truesdale said Easter was a time to spend with family and friends and not in a hospital emergency department.

“The results of a motorbike accident can be tragic and horrific,” A/Prof Truesdale said.

“Motorbike injuries range from broken bones, third degree road rash to head injury, including traumatic brain injury, and sadly, ultimately death.

“So it’s vital that all riders and their passengers wear the correct clothing and ensure that they do not become another Easter statistic in our emergency department.”

Supt Taylor said that all police would be taking part in Operation Crossroads, including the State Highway Patrol and Operations Response Unit.

Police will be supported by VicRoads Transport Safety Services vehicles with VicRoads officers patrolling major arterial routes and focusing on heavy vehicle safety.

Mobile speed cameras will also be operating in high road trauma areas around the state.