The Christmas/New Year period is one of the busiest times for Tasmania Police and other emergency services.  With the increased volume of traffic on the roads at this time of year, it is important to remember everyone has the right to travel on the road safely.  As part of Operation Crossroads, police are out in numbers to enforce safe driver behaviour.

Of great concern is the number of motorists detected this holiday period speeding.  Almost half of the 325 detections were for speeds between 15 – 29 km/h above the posted speed limit.  A further 11 motorists were detected travel 30 km/h or above the posted speed limit.

The speed limits on our roads are set to provide a safe driving environment for all road users.  They are not optional.  If you speed, you will get caught.

Yesterday, in the states west an 18yo novice ‘P’ plate driver was detected travelling 42 km/h over the posted speed limit.  The male driver was driving with two passengers at the time and now faces 3 months disqualification, 6 demerit points and a $650 fine.

“The very fact this individual chose to ignore the repeated warnings is disappointing and the risk to his own live, his passengers and those of law abiding road users is unacceptable” said Senior Sergeant Ian Mathewson.

In the states west, a 34yo male from Queenstown will face court this morning after being detected by police driving whilst unlicensed and returning a blood alcohol level of 0.124%, threatening police and for other non-road-safety related matters.

Tasmania Police will continue to target the fatal five in order to reduce serious and fatal crashes on the states road.  Seatbelts, speed, alcohol/drugs, distractions and fatigue.

Remember, having a driver’s licence is a privilege, not a right.  It is your choice whether you keep it.  Tasmania Police will continue to target high-risk driving behaviours that contribute to fatal and serious injury crashes.

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Operation Crossroads – State wide enforcement activities to date (total)