Series of serious and fatal road crashes prompts Tasmania Police warning

A series of serious and fatal crashes in recent days has prompted Tasmania Police to issue a warning and several tips.

• Investigations continue after Elizabeth Town fatal car accident
• An 88-year-old man has died after a Huon Highway crash

FOLLOWING a series of serious and fatal road crashes across the state in recent days, Tasmania Police is warning motorists to slow down and drive to winter conditions.

Last week, an 88-year-old man died in a two-car collision on the Huon Highway and on Monday night, a 28-year-old Blackstone Heights woman died at the scene of a crash near Elizabeth Town.

A woman became trapped in her vehicle and was flown to hospital after a crash on Tea Tree Rd on Tuesday afternoon.

Police on the scene of a two-vehicle crash last month. Picture: ZAK SIMMONDS

Inspector Philippa Burk said any crash that injured someone or resulted in a life being lost was devastating.

“We need motorists to take road safety seriously and do what they can to prevent these

crashes from occurring,” she said.

“We know that winter in Tasmania means rain and ice on our roads, which means

vehicles can slide into danger and out of control if the speed they are travelling at is too

fast for the conditions.

“Tasmanians need to be aware of their surroundings and look out for potential hazards

whenever they get behind the wheel, or on the road.

“Please drive safely, don’t get distracted, and adjust your driving behaviour to suit the

conditions.”

Tasmania Police tips for motorists:

– DRIVE at a speed that feels safe and allow plenty of time to stop quickly and safely.

– BE aware roads can become slippery and drive accordingly.

– LEAVE plenty of space between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead.

– DON’T allow distractions like mobile phones to affect your judgment and reaction times.

– DRIVE with headlights on when visibility is poor.