Operation Safe Arrival in force this Easter

Easter is a time for coming together with family and friends, which is why we’re reminding drivers to stay safe on the roads.

Launching Operation Safe Arrival on Wednesday, Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Management, Felix Ellis, said the Rockliff Liberal Government, Tasmania Police, Road Safety Advisory Council and RACT were united in their call for Tasmanians to take extra care and follow the road rules.

“Sadly, in previous years there have been fatalities and serious injuries on our roads over the Easter weekend. Already this year we’ve had nine people lose their lives on Tasmanian roads and 116 people seriously injured in crashes,” Minister Ellis said.

“Tasmania Police will be out there this Easter cracking down on people driving dangerously. We want everyone in the community to be safe on our roads.

"Tasmania Police has one of the highest ratios of road policing in the country but keeping everyone safe is not just a mission for them, it’s a mission for the whole community. It starts with each one of us.

“We know we are going to see more traffic on our roads over the next few days and we need everyone to slow down, take extra care and follow the rules.”

Minister Ellis said that while crash fatalities are slightly down this year compared to this time last year, far more people have been seriously injured in accidents.

“Being seriously injured in a crash can have devastating lifelong effects,” he said.

“Take the time to plan your road trip and give yourself extra time to get where you’re going.

“Make sure your vehicle is safe before you head off anywhere and when you’re on the roads slow down, pay attention, wear your seatbelt, stop and rest before you get tired and never drive after drinking or taking drugs.

“We know that most crashes can be avoided, and we urge every single road user to listen to this advice and to have safety front of mind when they hit the road this Easter.”

If you do see something dangerous on Tasmanian roads you can call police on 131 444 or Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.