The blitz, run as part of national Road Safety week, finished on Friday, however police are still collecting and recording figures from throughout the period.

On Thursday, police activities focused on unroadworthy vehicles and a total of 28 defect orders were issued in the western district for defects including cracked windscreens, bald tyres, faulty indicators and inoperative headlights.

They also detected a disqualified driver who tested positive for drugs and  booked four drivers for driving with suspended licenses.

Inspector Adrian Shadbolt reminded drivers of the importance of vehicle maintenance.

“The predominant vehicle fault detected yesterday was driving with smooth or bald tyres,” he said.

“Although at this time we are now entering the winter period, it is important that motorists ensure that their vehicle is roadworthy, as should occur at any other time of year. A smooth tyre will severely affect vehicle handling in wet conditions.”