As restrictions ease, the number of lives lost on Victorian roads continues to soar. During the 17 days of road policing Operation Saturn, 11 people did not return home to their families.
In 2019, which was known for being a challenging year on the road, 12 people lost their lives during the same time period.
Road Policing Command Acting Assistant Commissioner John Fitzpatrick said that road trauma is preventable, and it is important when getting behind the wheel of a car to make sure you focus on the task at hand.
"This year has been a challenging year for all Victorians. To then lose a loved one as a result of road trauma is just devastating," A/AC Fitzpatrick said.
"Particularly as we head into the Christmas period, the feeling of loss is often felt so much more."
Across the 17-day operation 413 people were caught drink driving, and 487 people with drugs in their system.
Victoria Police were also disappointed in the fact that more than 800 people were caught using their mobile phone while driving.
"People are starting to drive both distances and speeds they are not familiar with, which carries its own risk," A/AC Fitzpatrick said.
"But the thought of people then throwing distraction into the mix is a deadly combination.
"I cannot stress the importance of leaving your phone alone while driving."
More than 16,113 traffic offences and 2,529 crime offences were detected during Operation Saturn including:
• 6428 speeding offences
• 385 disqualified/suspended drivers
• 799 unlicensed drivers
• 1698 unregistered vehicles
• 843 mobile phone offences
• 911 disobey signs/signals
• 302 vehicle impounds
Operation Saturn ran from 12.01am on Thursday 22 October to 11.59pm on Sunday 8 November 2020.
