Police have expressed disappointment following a traffic operation conducted in Launceston yesterday that targeted inattentive driver behaviour.

The operation that utilised covert patrols of the Launceston Central Business District yielded the following detections:

• 30 drivers were caught using their mobile phones whilst driving.
• 1 driver was caught failing to wear a seat belt.
• 2 drivers were caught failing to comply with traffic lights.
• 6 other traffic related offences were detected.

Acting Inspector Stuart Greenwood said that it was disappointing that so many motorists in the Launceston CBD were detected driving whilst distracted by their phones.

“Distraction is one of the fatal five contributors to serious and fatal crashes.  A distracted driver places themselves, their passengers and other road users at risk of serious injury due to the increased likelihood of causing a crash.”

“Safety on our roads is a priority for Tasmania Police. We will continue to conduct both highly visible and covert operations that target the fatal five – speeding, fatigue, distraction, seatbelts, and alcohol and drugs.”

The penalty for using a mobile phone while driving is a fine of $362 and 3 demerit points.