Less people were caught driving under the influence during this year’s Operation Crossroads, but Tasmania Police says the numbers were “still too high”.
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Almost 18,500 drivers were tested during the annual Easter initiative, with 43 caught behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol and 50 testing positive for drugs.
Acting Inspector Steve Jones said overall traffic offences were down 12 per cent from last year’s operation, but seatbelt infringements almost doubled.
“I would be confident in stating that no Tasmanian of driving age would be unaware of this requirement and there is simply no excuse for not wearing one,” he said.
“Seatbelts reduce the risk of death by 45 per cent, and cut the risk of serious injury by 50 per cent.”
During the long weekend operation, there were three serious crashes and one fatality.
Acting Inspector Jones said two of the three serious crashes were “completely avoidable and each resulted directly from one of the fatal five”.
“Although the Easter Operation Crossroads campaign has ended, motorists are urged to be continually aware of the fatal five,” he said.
“It is not only during holiday periods that crashes occur and these messages are just as important outside holidays as during.”