Western Road Policing Services targeted the fatal five during traffic operations at Devonport and Ridgley between 4.00pm and 9.00pm on Friday afternoon (14 November).

During the operations, police detected 11 speeding drivers, one drink driver, and an L-plater that was speeding while under the influence of illicit drugs.

Acting Inspector Adam Starr said a 28-year-old man from Penguin was caught travelling 106km/h on Hillcrest Road in Devonport which is 56km/h over the sign-posted speed limit.

“He was disqualified from driving for six months and was issued a fine over $1100.

“A 43-year-old woman and a 24-year-old man were also caught travelling 23km/h and 30km/h over the signposted limit, and a 19-year-old male L-plater from Devonport was caught speeding, driving under the influence of an illicit substance and failing to display their ‘L’ plates.

“During the same period, two other drivers, a 33-year-old woman and 19-year-old woman, were caught travelling 30km/h over the signposted limit on the Ridgley Highway at Ridgely with one being a provisional licence holder,” he said.

A 52-year-old Devonport man also returned a breath alcohol reading of 0.119 when he was subjected to a road-side breath test in Devonport.

Acting Inspector Starr said the safety of the community is a priority for Tasmania Police, and these driving behaviours place members within our community at an increased risk.

“Speeding and driving under the influence are two significant factors that result in serious crashes on our roads, and police are out every day enforcing these, and other road rules, in order to keep all road users safe.”

Anyone who witnesses dangerous driving behaviour on our roads should report it when safe to do so to police on 131 444.

If it’s an emergency or life-threatening situation call triple zero (000).

Video or dash-cam footage can also be uploaded via the police evidence portal online, found at www.police.tas.gov.au/report/ or anonymously at www.crimestopperstas.com.au.