A total of 9 drivers were caught using their mobile phone in a two hour traffic operation in Ulverstone this morning.

Sgt Nigel Sheahen, of Western District’s Road and Public Order Services, said that a driver who was driving with his licence suspended was also detected during the operation, which was conducted on the third day of National Road Safety Week.

“Police remind all motorists that using mobile phones while driving is a dangerous distraction.  Taking your eyes and attention off the road for just a couple of seconds can end in tragedy,” Sgt Sheahen said.

“Driving Whilst Using a Mobile Phone and Inattentive Driving are part of the Fatal Five contributing factors to serious and fatal crashes on Tasmanian roads.

“It’s not just about texting or using your mobile to make a call. It includes any application that that phone is capable of performing, for example GPS, music playlists, internet, checking the time etc. Motorists just shouldn’t be holding their phone at all while they are driving.

“It is disappointing that a large number of motorists continue to use their mobile phones whilst driving.  The penalty for using a mobile phone while driving is a $300 fine and 3 demerit points – it’s just not worth the risk.”

“Safety on Tasmanian roads is a priority for police and we will continue to conduct both visible and covert operations as part of our regular traffic related activities.”