Almost 50 drivers were caught using mobile phones during a targeted police operation in Launceston’s CBD yesterday.
Police conducted “covert” surveillance between 7:30am and 2pm, detecting 49 motorists illegally using phones while behind the wheel.
The pre-Christmas safety blitz also caught eight drivers and passengers who were not wearing seatbelts.
Sergeant Ben Kromkamp said police were frustrated by the number of offences detected in such a short period.
He said it was disappointing that drivers continued to use their phones while driving, particularly in busy traffic areas.
“With Christmas less than two weeks away, we can expect to see an increase in drivers on our roads and pedestrians, especially in the CBD,” he said.
“Drivers need to turn their attention away from their phones and onto the road.”
The operation forms part of Tasmania Police’s broader campaign targeting speeding, drink and drug driving, distraction, fatigue and seatbelt offences.
“Tasmania Police will continue to target the ‘Fatal Five’ in an effort to reduce serious and fatal crashes this festive season,” Kromkamp said.
