State Growth statistics obtained last week show the number of meth-related crashes in Tasmania has gradually risen since 2011.

But the number of crashes where meth use was a factor is small compared to the total number of crashes resulting in injury or death over the same period.

State Growth surveyed all crashes that caused serious injuries, minor injuries, and injuries where first aid was administered, to see how many involved methamphetamine.

The statistics show there were seven meth-related crashes in 2011, followed by 12 in 2012.

2013 also saw 12 crashes that involved the drug, while there were a total of 19 last year.

So far this year there have 11 meth-related crashes across the state.

There were more than 2000 injurious or fatal car accidents in total in Tasmania during the same years.

Tasmania Police has confirmed that 10 per cent of fatal car crashes were caused in-part by drugs in 2014, while alcohol was a factor in 16 per cent of fatal crashes.

In 2013, drugs played a role in 11 per cent of fatal crashes, while alcohol was a factor in 13 per cent.

The numbers have prompted police to issue a warning to motorists ahead of what is expected to be a busy festive period.

‘‘While high-volume RBT operations continue to be conducted, Tasmania Police is focusing on a targeted and intelligence-led approach to actively detect drink and drug driving offenders,’’ Assistant Commissioner Richard Cowling said.

‘‘This has proven successful with increased detections of both drink and drug driving offenders.’’

In 2014, 63 per cent of fatal and serious injury crashes occurred on rural roads.

Police have developed a Rural Road Policing Strategy aimed at reducing fatal and serious injury crashes in rural areas.

The upcoming festive season is a reminder to all motorists to:

●Slow down and drive to the conditions.

●Pay attention all the time.

●Don’t drive while tired.

●Wear your seatbelt.

●Don’t drive after drinking or if you’ve taken drugs – it’s not just your life at risk.