Victorian roads authorities have begun an operation to target heavy vehicle roadworthiness in Vic. The name of the operation is Trishula and is aimed at ensuring the safety of state roads with attention being given to heavy vehicles in particular. The high number of unroadworthy heavy vehicles in the state is what prompted the new campaign. Outer Melbourne in particular has been identified as a problem area in the state. Shockingly last year’s campaign revealed 85 per cent of vehicles were defected, drastically jeopardising road safety in the state. Authorities have warned that operators and drivers are being given advanced warning and should take the opportunity to set their vehicles right. They need to ensure their vehicles are properly maintained and serviced and that they are abiding by chain of responsibility laws. Drivers need to ensure that they are not exceeding the speed limit and adhere to the required number of rest breaks and fatigue management. Another issue that drivers need to be aware of is drink and drug driving and speed limiter tampering. These seem to be the most prevalent issues of Victorian roads. Officers will be conducting vehicle inspections to ensure the vehicle is being maintained, including checking of brakes, suspension, lights and mirrors and even minor defects. Drivers and operators be aware and on the lookout, and stay within chain of responsibility laws.