South Australian roads were filled with many more travelers this year on the Easter long weekend compared with the past two years, with only one life lost recorded on Good Friday.
South Australia Police continuously monitored and patrolled roads across the State for Operation Safe Long Weekend Easter 2022.
23,726 alcotests were conducted with 72 positive results during the operation, along with 1,001 drug tests conducted with 101 drivers returning a positive result.
A 42-year-old man from Balaklava allegedly produced a blood alcohol reading of 0.237 on Friday 15 April, while a 35-year-old Maitland man allegedly returned a positive breath test of 0.185 on Sunday 17 April.
1231 drivers were caught speeding, with 50 drivers detected at 30km/h or higher over the posted speed limit.
63 drivers were detected not wearing a seatbelt, 75 drivers were caught using their mobile phone while driving and 307 cars were issued defect notices.
A 65-year-old man from the Copper Coast died after his ute collided with a freight train on Friday 15 April near the Augusta Highway at Winninowie, while six people suffered serious injuries as a result of other crashes.
Superintendent Bob Gray, officer in charge of Traffic Services Branch says, "While most South Australian road users stuck to the speed limit and the road rules this Easter, it is still concerning that some motorists choose to drive at excessive speeds.
50 drivers were caught at speeds 30 kilometres over the limit or more. As we all know, speeding is one of the main contributors in serious and fatal crashes."
Operation Safe Long Weekend Easter 2022 ran from Thursday 14 April until Monday 18 April 2022.
