More than twice as many Tasmanian drivers have tested positive to drugs during this year’s Easter police blitz.
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Tasmania Police said an increase of random drug and alcohol tests was the reason a higher number of drug-drivers were detected.
Random drug and alcohol tests had increased by more than 20 per cent when to the same time last year.
Operation Crossroads tested 12,144 drivers tested over the past four days, with 39 returning a positive oral fluid test – 22 more than 2016.
Police urged the public to plan ahead and take a taxi, walk or arrange a designated driver.
Mobile phone offences increased more than 230 per cent compared to the same time last year.
Police said driving while using a mobile phone was inherently dangerous and reduced a driver’s ability to identify, process and react to changing or unexpected conditions.
Overall police were pleased with the general behaviour of Tasmanian motorists.
To-date there has been one serious crash, 707 speeding offences and a total 968 infringement notices issued.
Seatbelt offences were down from this time last year. Police have been cracking down on seatbelts as part of an ongoing campaign in the North – Seatbelts Save Lives.
With many drivers heading home after a long weekend, Tasmania Police said motorists should be patient and courteous with camper vans and those towing caravans.
Drivers were reminded to take breaks if they felt tired.
State Emergency Services setup driver reviver stations at St Peters Pass, Parramatta Creek, The Sidling, Franklin River and Frossy River on Monday to help Tasmanians get home safely after the Easter weekend.