Northern police called to seven crashes within 24 hours

Police are again urging drivers to take care on Tasmanian roads after police were called to three crashes in the West Tamar area and seven crashes in the broader Northern District within 24 hours.

About 10am Wednesday, police were called to a crash at St Helens where a driver had lost control and crashed down an embankment, hitting a power pole.

Two hours later, police were called to a crash on the West Tamar Highway at Legana, after a utility had crossed onto the incorrect side of the road before crashing into a tree. 

Early investigations indicated fatigue was a factor in the Legana crash. The driver returned a positive oral fluid test at the scene and will appear in court at a later date.

Later that afternoon, a driver allegedly fell asleep at the wheel on Meander Road at Meander, and rolled his vehicle. 

About 8am Thursday, police were called to a two-vehicle crash on Frankford Road at Frankford between a motorcycle and a truck, after the motorcycle failed to remain in the correct lane while negotiating a bend. 

Early investigations indicated inattention was a factor in that crash.

Inspector Adam Spencer said while nobody was seriously injured in the crashes, the situation could have been very different.

“All of these crashes could have ended in tragedy,” he said.

“They were all avoidable, and all involved one or more of the fatal five. Crashes not only impact the driver of a vehicle involved, but the wider community. 

“Not only did these crashes have the potential to cause serious injury or death, but each caused significant disruptions to traffic and involved significant police and emergency service resourcing. 

Police will continue to undertake proactive patrols and target problem crash areas over the coming days and months.

“Coming into Summer and the Christmas period, we need everyone to do their part on our roads, don’t be the reason someone doesn’t go home to their families. ” Inspector Spencer said.

Anyone with information or footage, or who may have witnessed any of the crashes should contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers via crimestopperstas.com.au