Police jurisdictions across Australia will unite today to put a stop to death by distraction on the nation’s roads.

The National Day of Action will have a highly visible police presence aimed at educating and removing motorists who are distracted from the complex task of driving.

“Today, as part of National Road Safety Week, members of the Australian Road Policing Network will take part in a National Day of Action targeting Distraction offences,” said Assistant Commissioner, Jonathan Higgins.

“Today I urge every motorist to hear this message – inattention and distraction is one of the Fatal Five contributors to crashes on our roads – in a split second, it can have deadly consequences.”

“Disappointingly, research shows that 60% of Australian drivers admit to using their mobile phone while driving – that’s 60% of drivers who risk killing or seriously injuring themselves or someone else on our roads – this is an attitude that needs to be reset.”

“Police across Tasmania will have a specific focus on distraction offences today, and there will be no second chances for drivers caught breaking those rules.”

“Focusing on anything other than driving while you’re behind the wheel is dangerous. If you think picking up your phone while behind the wheel is fine, think again.”

“Don’t think that it can’t happen to you. Families of victims of road trauma, emergency first responders and emergency department personnel know all too well that it can, and they know the devastating impact road trauma has on lives.”

Anyone who witnesses dangerous driving on the roads is encouraged to report it to police:

• immediately by ringing 131 444. If it’s an emergency or a life-threatening situation, ring Triple Zero (000).
• if you can’t report it at the time but you have footage, submit evidence to police through the portal – https://www.police.tas.gov.au/report/