Dial and drive and be fined
Mobiles an enforcement focus
MORE than $15,000 in fines were handed out in four hours for just one offence police are warning will not be tolerated.
The momentary lapse in concentration when using a mobile phone can kill and Toowoomba police are fed up with motorists flaunting the law.
And with 39 drivers caught using a mobile phone while behind the wheel - attracting a $391 fine and three demerit points - those who continue to break the law will be caught.
As of yesterday, 489 motorists were fined for dialling and driving since January 1, raking in a whopping $191,199 in fines.
Darling Downs Acting Superintendent Stephen Angus said while an increased police presence on the roads this Christmas and school holidays period would target the Fatal Five, mobile phones would be a special focus.
“Unfortunately we’re seeing a very strong increase in people using mobile phones,” he said.
“Just recently, in an operation over a four hour period, our officers detected 39 people using mobile phones ... which is just incredible.
“We do have a number of fatalities that have been directly attributable to the use of mobile phones by motorists.”
Acting Supt. Angus said the Darling Downs road toll for 2018 was higher than previous years, with concerns rising about the increased traffic expected for the upcoming school holiday period.
“While we are happy to provide a road safety message for our community members, we will take enforcement action where they are detected.
“We want to see each and every one of you reach your destination safely.”