Otago Lakes Police are disappointed after a single officer issued 23 infringements for mobile phone use while driving in less than eight hours on Gorge Road, Queenstown yesterday.
The officer was parked visibly and in a marked car, highlighting the level of distraction.
Additionally, four infringements were issued for not wearing seatbelts, and two for excess speed.
¡°It¡¯s disappointing to see that drivers still aren¡¯t getting the message about distracted driving,¡± says Road Policing Manager, Senior Sergeant Sarah Thorn.
In 2020, distraction was a factor in 23 deaths and 125 serious injuries on our roads.?
¡°Using a mobile phone that is not hands-free means you are not paying attention. You¡¯re placing yourself, anyone else in your vehicle and all other road users at risk.¡±
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre