Tasmania Police Senior Sergeant Jason Jones said the vast majority of drivers did the right thing on the roads during the extended break.

The number of crashes reduced by about half in 2019. Nine crashes were recorded in 2019, and 17 last year.

One fatality was recorded, three serious crashes and three minor crashes occurred.

"Any fatality is one too many, and especially during the festive season is devastating for the families and loved ones concerned," Senior Sergeant Jones said.

"We implore drivers to slow down, and do the right thing on our roads so that everyone can get home to their loved ones safely."

More than 22,250 drivers were tested for drugs and alcohol.

About 43 drink drivers were detected and 59 drug drivers were caught.

"We're still getting a high number of drug drivers, but a little bit less than we did have last year, so that is promising," he said.

"We don't want people to drive when they're incapacitated with drugs and alcohol.

"We are catching a lot more people in relation to driving with illicit drugs, but we've got better testing capabilities now and that's helping us detect those drivers."

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Senior Sergeant Jones said Tasmania Police would continue to be on watch over the weekend due to the extended break.

"We never stop, we're always out there and, basically, could be in any vehicle, unmarked or marked, or be anywhere," he said.

"We also have a number of unmarked motorcycles now that are working around the city trying to detect people that are driving and on their phone or not paying attention to the road."

Tasmania Police was overall happy with the driving public.

"While the majority of motorists have listened to our messaging on the fatal five and have adopted safe-driving practices, motorists are reminded that police will remain committed to enforcing and encouraging safe driving behaviour throughout 2019," he said.