A 90-minute traffic operation has resulted in nearly two dozen drivers being charged for using their phones while behind the wheel.
Police caught 22 drivers, including two provisional licence holders, in the Hobart CBD on Wednesday morning.
Acting Inspector Adrian Leary said mobile phone use is considered one of the fatal five offences.
He said it was disappointing that police continue to detect people driving whilst distracted by their phones.
“Safety on our roads is a priority for Tasmania Police. We will continue to conduct both highly visible and covert operations that target the fatal five – speeding, fatigue, distraction, seatbelts and alcohol and drugs,” he said.
Under Tasmanian law, it is illegal to hold a mobile phone in your hand or rest it on any part of your body while driving, as well as to type or enter anything into a mobile phone.
Police say sending or just looking at anything that is on a mobile phone, including text messages, is also not allowed, as is using or turning the device on or off.
“All learners and P1 provisional (first year) licence holders are banned from using mobile phones whilst driving (including when a vehicle is stationary, but not parked). This includes hands-free and voice-activation mode,” police said.
