Operation Arid commences on Friday, March 5 and concludes on Monday, March 8 and will aim to reduce the incidence and severity of road trauma on high-use roads.

Bendigo Police Highway Patrol Senior Sergeant Ian Brooks said officers will be out in force and dedicated to road policing for some or all of their shifts this long weekend.

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"We'll be targeting the primary offences that are causing most of our collisions, which are speed; alcohol and drug driving or impaired driving; people not wearing their seatbelts; fatigue; and distraction offences.

Senior Sergeant Brooks said State Highway Patrol will deploy an additional eight units into the regional division this weekend, across shires in central and northern Victoria.

"People can expect a very large, visible presence on the highway," he said.

"Be patient, take your time and drive to the conditions.

"The last thing we want to see is you spending your holidays in the emergency department of a hospital, or worse."

Victoria Police said long distance road trips, cycling and motorbike riding, day trips and recreational activities such as camping and hiking in national parks are forming part of their predictions for an increase in lives lost on Victorian roads this weekend.

Officers are said to be expecting a high volume of vehicles peeling off the main arterials to travel to campgrounds along feeder roads.

In addition, cyclists and motorcyclists are among the vulnerable across the weekend, with favourable weather conditions expected to see people go for prolonged rides and challenge their ability on unfamiliar roads.

Road Policing Command Assistant Commissioner Libby Murphy has urged road users to be extra vigilant this weekend.

"Police will use every opportunity to be visible, to intercept and to educate drivers," Assistant Commissioner Murphy said.

"We cannot be everywhere, but we ask that people take responsibility and help us ensure that everyone makes it home to their loved ones this long weekend."

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