OVER 100 distracted drivers were caught in a police blitz during August.  

Police say 129 of the 138 drivers issued with fines were using a hand-held mobile phone while driving.

Eight others were fined for failing to drive without proper control of their vehicle and in one case, a 32-year-old man from Chifley was caught driving with a dog on his lap.

Traffic Operations Sergeant Rod Anderson says the “alarming scenario” highlighted the importance that driving is a skill that requires full attention.

“Anything that takes a driver’s attention away from the road could result in a collision and the potential for loss of life,” he said.

“Three seconds (such as checking a mobile text message, dealing with the kids in the back seat, or applying make-up) whereby a driver’s attention is taken away from the road could have fatal consequences.”

Police targeted driver distraction throughout August as part of its multi-agency road safety strategy. In September police will target seatbelts and the proper use of child restraints.