Operation Arid is a state-wide policing operation that will be conducted over the Labour Day weekend and conclude on Monday night

The four-day operation is targeting the increased traffic expected in regional parts of Victoria as people travel for the long weekend.

More news

The operation will focus on the other 'fatal five' causes of road trauma - excessive speed, driver distraction, fatigue, and restraint non-compliance in metropolitan and rural locations.

Bendigo Highway Patrol Senior Sergeant Ian Brooks said fatigue is a major issue for central Victorian regions.

"Operation Arid is focus for highway patrol and all uniform units on road safety," Bendigo Highway Patrol Senior Sergeant Ian Brooks said. Fatigue is a huge issue for (drivers in our region) and all police members will be spending all or part of their shifts on road safety.

"This long weekend is only three days. People will leave Friday and shoot back Monday and will be keen to get as much time in to their holiday as possible. But (drivers) must be patient, drive to conditions and remember where you are.

"It's better to turn up five minutes late than have the next family visit in a trauma centre."

Victoria Police road policing command assistant commissioner Libby Murphy said police anticipate many people will be driving on roads that are unfamiliar and in conditions that come with risks.

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

"If you see a police car along a major arterial or road that leads to your campground, we hope you will think twice before engaging in risky behaviour later in your journey or across the weekend.

"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."

Police are also anticipating that people will make the decision to get behind the wheel while impaired by drugs or alcohol.

"With some events back on, we know people like to have a few drinks with their friends or choose to take illicit substances," Assistant Commisioner Murphy said. "Unfortunately, this often translates to people getting behind the wheel while impaired.

"Our message to those who choose to do this is that we will be extra vigilant; any unusual driving behaviour or breach of a road rule could indicate the driver shouldn't be behind the wheel."

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: