As a result of a complaint made to police regarding motorists speeding through roadworks on the Midland Highway, Tasmania Police conducted an operation targeting high-range speeders.

As a result, 17 motorists were booked in a two-hour period in roadworks yesterday (15 January 2019) just north of Melton Mowbray on the Midland Highway.

Despite clearly marked roadworks and speed reduction signs being displayed, motorists exceeded those speed limits, endangering the lives of workers carrying out testing on the verge for future improvements to the highway.

“All of those booked had exceeded the limit by at least 20 km/h” Acting Inspector Ian Mathewson said.

“This is not good enough. The speeding behaviour of motorists in roadwork sites is putting the lives of road workers at risk.  Road workers have a right to a safe work environment just as motorists have a right to a safe driving environment.

“Tasmania Police will continue to enforce speeding offences in and around Tasmanian roadways where roadworks are being conducted.”

Drivers are reminded to obey the posted limits in roadwork areas.