Driver alert: Police will be watching you

BACKSTREETS, rural roads and entertainment districts are all going to be hit hard by Tasmania Police this Easter long weekend as part of Operation Crossroads.

The police blitz, which will target unlawful drivers, winds up on Tuesday.

Commander Jonathan Higgins said police would be targeting hot spots for drunk drivers and drug drivers.

“Police will be patrolling alternative routes out of towns and cities, targeting the backstreets, rural roads and entertainment districts,” he said.

“Remember that you could still be over the limit even if you’ve had a few hours’ sleep. Picking up your car too early in the day could mean you’re still affected by alcohol.”

Commander Higgins also urged drivers to keep the ‘Fatal Five’ in mind: slow down and drive to the conditions, pay attention all the time, don’t drive while tired, wear your seatbelt or helmet, don’t drive after drinking or taking drugs.

“If you’re not paying attention, or driving while tired, affected by alcohol or drugs, or speeding — you may be involved in a serious crash,” he said.

Last year 36 people died on Tasmanian roads. The road toll so far this year is 11.

Road Safety Advisory Council chairman Garry Bailey wrote in a Talking Point article this week that every crash was avoidable.

“All it takes is 100 per cent concentration, patience, consideration for others and adherence to the road rules,” he wrote.

“You can’t be tired, you can’t drink and drive, you can’t take drugs and drive, you can’t use your mobile.

“When you’re heading off on a break there is no need to rush, to speed, to dangerously overtake, or to drive without taking account of the road conditions.”

So far this week, two teenage motorcyclists have been caught speeding. On Tuesday a 17-year-old female was caught doing 55km/h over the 90km/h limit on the East Derwent Highway. On Monday another motorcyclist, a 17year-old male, was going almost 100km/h over the limit near Burnie.