Overall police were happy with driver behaviour over the Christmas and New Year period, but impaired driving and seatbelt non-compliance remained an issue.
During Operation Roadwise 10 people lost their life on Victorian roads, which was five people less than the same time period last year. While it is pleasing to see a reduction in the number of deaths, this will be of no comfort to those who are mourning someone close to them.
Across the 20-day operation 463 people were caught drink driving and 535 people caught with drugs in their system. Like alcohol, drugs can reduce a driver's ability to have full control of a vehicle.
More than 14,216 traffic offences and 1,332 crime offences were detected during Operation Roadwise including:
• 6,201 speeding offences
• 353 disqualified/suspended drivers
• 526 unlicensed drivers
• 1,564 unregistered vehicles
• 502 mobile phone offences
• 693 disobey signs/signals
• 241 vehicle impounds
• 298 seatbelt offences
Operation Roadwise ran from 12.01am on Friday 18 December 2020 to 11.59pm on Wednesday 6 January 2021.
Quotes attributable to Road Policing Command Assistant Commissioner Libby Murphy:
While overall we were happy with the behaviour of drivers, it is disappointing to see that despite all the warnings Victorians continue to drive impaired. It is not worth being caught, or worse - seriously injuring or killing yourself, your mates, or an innocent road user.
We want 2021 to be a better year for all Victorians. This means slowing down, avoiding distractions such as using mobile phones while driving, buckling up and stopping for appropriate rest breaks when travelling long distances.
Putting on a seatbelt gives you the best chance of survival if involved in a serious collision. Sadly lives could have been saved if people managed to do this simple task. Whether you are travelling a short distance down the road or on a long journey - always wear a seatbelt. There's no excuse.
