Three P-platers were among fifteen drivers caught speeding in Tasmania’s midlands at the weekend.

Some drivers were recorded travelling close to 35km/hr over the speed limit on the Midland Highway near Oatlands, and were given fines of $519 and five demerit points.

Two of those were provisional licence holders. The other provisional driver was caught travelling 27km/hr over the limit and was fined $302 and given three demerit points.

26 people have died on Tasmanian roads this year, three more than this time last year.

“Speeding is one of the top contributors to serious crashes, and we need all drivers to stop thinking that the rules don’t apply to them,” said Senior Sergeant John Parker.

“Speed limits exist for a reason, and anyone who drives above the legal limit is putting themselves and others at serious risk.”

“Please slow down and drive to the conditions so we can prevent any more lives being lost on our roads.”

The ‘fatal five’ driving behaviours remain the highest contributors to serious and fatal crashes. These are speeding, not wearing a seatbelt, fatigue, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and being distracted while driving.