Lives at risk as speed signs tampered with at Burrum Heads, Howard

Police are warning lives are being put at risk on our roads due to people tampering with or removing speed traffic signs.

With new, reduced speed limits popping up across the Fraser Coast, some are taking matters into their own hands by tampering with or removing the signs.

But police are warning such actions are just putting the lives of motorists and road users at risk.

It is alleged that a number of speed signs near Burrum Heads and Howard have been removed and replaced by higher speed signs, which police have warned was not only illegal but could be fatal for road users.

After receiving complaints from police officers and other government departments, officers from the Maryborough Highway Patrol Unit issued a warning to people who changed or removed traffic speed signs.

“Speed signs and limits are placed on highways and built-up areas for multiple reasons, including road conditions and safety of road users for example when entering tight bends,” police officer Melanie Ryan said in a statement.

Speed limit signs across the Fraser Coast are being tampered with, putting road users' lives at risk.

“Altering or moving and replacing these speed signs places road users at risk and could even cause fatal crashes with drivers travelling at higher speeds than the road is designed for,” Snr Const. Ryan said.

“If you move, change or alter a road sign, it is a criminal offence with charges relevant to the situation including wilful damage, stealing and acts intended to cause harm.”

If a speed limit sign has been officially changed, additional signs will be installed to let motorists know of the changes, such as the recent changes on the Maryborough-Hervey Bay Road between St Helens and Dundathu, Snr Const. Ryan said.

If you see any suspicious behaviour or have information regarding unlawful changes and removal of speed signs, you can contact Policelink on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Originally published as Lives at risk as speed signs tampered with at Burrum Heads, Howard