Glenorchy Police undertook a high visibility traffic operation today aimed at detecting and deterring unsafe driving behaviours.

“Tasmania Police is committed to improving driver behaviour, to prevent crashes and keep everyone safe on the roads,” said Inspector John Ward.

“Glenorchy Police conducted a traffic operation on Barossa Road this morning and were pleased with the behaviour of motorists that were intercepted.

“Of the 188 motorists intercepted, the majority of drivers were doing the right thing, however, one person was charged with driving without a licence, and three other motorists received defect notices for their vehicles for minor issues.”

Despite the pleasing results today, this financial year to date Glenorchy Police have charged 69 people for failing to wear a seatbelt, 77 people for using a mobile phone whilst driving, 772 people for speeding and 305 people for a combination of drink and drug driving.

“It’s disappointing that while most Tasmanians do the right thing on our roads, there are still some drivers who continue to do the wrong thing on our roads – which puts themselves and others at unnecessary risk,” said Inspector Ward.

“If you undertake dangerous driving behaviours, you increase the changes of crashing, and killing or seriously injuring yourself or someone else.

“I urge every driver and rider to do the right thing every time they travel on the roads – slow down, obey the speed limit, and remember that it’s not just their life on the line.

All motorists are urged to remember the fatal five contributors to crashes every time they travel on the roads:

• Obey the speed limit – it’s there for a reason.
• Pay attention – one moment of distraction is all it takes to cause a crash.
• Rest if you’re tired – arriving late is better than not arriving at all.
• Buckle up every person in the vehicle – seatbelts save lives.
• Never drive after drinking or taking drugs – you’ll be putting more than your life on the line.