This is the fourth full day of operation Crossroads.

It is pleasing to see there has been a reduction in the number of positive oral fluid tests; however, disappointing to see that drivers are still putting their lives at risk as well as other members of the public by driving whilst exceeding the prescribed alcohol limit.  As it currently stands, the number of motorists charged with drink driving is identical to the same time last year.

Of great concern, is that seatbelt offences have nearly doubled compared to the same reporting period last year.  Seat belts are one of the Fatal Five contributing factors to serious and fatal crashes in Tasmania.  Seatbelts reduce the risk of death by 45%, and cut the risk of serious injury by 50%. Seat belts prevent drivers and passengers from being ejected during a crash. People not wearing a seat belt are 30 times more likely to be ejected from a vehicle during a crash.  If anyone in a vehicle fails to wear a seatbelt (including passengers), they face a fine of $318 and 3 demerit points.

Tasmania Police will continue to conduct high visibility and covert traffic operations in all areas around the state.  Police will also be patrolling alternative routes out of towns and cities, targeting the back streets and rural roads.

Another motorist attempted to evade an RBT site in the states North yesterday.  Officers from the Northern Road Safety Task Force were conducting RBTs in Mayfield when a vehicle was directed to pull over, which after some hesitation it did.  Whilst checks were being completed, the driver suddenly pulled out and drove off forcing two officers to move off the roadway.    The vehicle was followed and intercepted a short time later.

The driver was charged with Disqualified Driving, Aggravated Evade, exceed 0.05 namely 0.138 and bailed to appear in court at a later date.  The vehicle was clamped for a period of 6 months.

Tasmania Police continue to remind every motorist to drive carefully and be continually aware of the ‘Fatal Five’; the five biggest contributors to serious and fatal accidents on our roads, those being; speed, failure to wear seatbelts or helmets, alcohol and drugs, distraction and driver fatigue.

Today is generally the day that people will be driving home from their Easter Holidays.  Expect to see more traffic on the roads today.  Tasmania Police ask all motorists to take their time and take breaks if they are tired.  Driver Reviver stations are set up around the state at; St Peters Pass, Parramatta Creek and Fossey River.  The wonderful folks from the SES are manning these locations and would love to see you pop in for a free cup of tea or coffee and a biscuit or two.