More than 50 motorists were caught for speeding in Tasmania's Western District on Boxing Day, including two drivers with high-range speeds more than 30km/h over the posted limit.
A significant number of the detections were identified by covert units from Tasmania Police's Taskforce Scelus, operating throughout the Western District during Operation Safe Arrival.
Acting Inspector Luke Negri said the results of 51 speeding offences recorded on Boxing Day was disappointing, particularly at a time when traffic volumes increased and families were travelling to spend time together.
"Speeding remains one of the most significant contributors to serious injury and fatal crashes," Acting Inspector Negri said.
"Driving at these speeds removes any margin for error. When something unexpected occurs, there is simply no time to react, and the consequences can be catastrophic, something we see far too often".
In one instance of high-range speeding on Boxing Day, a 35-year-old male driver was intercepted at Preservation Bay, Sulphur Creek, travelling at 125km/h in a 90km/h zone, incurring a $615.00 fine and five demerit points.
In a second incident on Friday, a 24-year-old male driver was detected travelling at 113km/h in a 70km/h zone on the Bass Highway at Devonport, resulting in a penalty of $871.00 and six demerit points.
Speeding is one of the 'Fatal Five' behaviours that Tasmania Police actively target, alongside:
- Distraction and inattention
- Drink and drug driving
- Fatigue
- Failure to wear a seatbelt
"These behaviours continue to be a focus for Tasmania Police because they are consistently linked to serious crashes and loss of life," Acting Inspector Negri said.
Tasmania Police will continue highly visible and targeted road safety operations throughout the Christmas and New Year period of Operation Safe Arrival, with a focus on reducing high-risk behaviour and keeping all road users safe.
"A moment of impatience or poor decision-making can have lifelong consequences," Acting Inspector Negri said.
Anyone with information about dangerous driving is urged to contact police on 131 444, or triple zero (000) in an emergency.
