It is the obligation of both the drivers and freight companies to ensure that trucks that are on Australian roads do not pose any risks to freight company employees as well as other road users.
VicRoads ran a joint truck operation with Bendigo Police that exposed the high level of trucks on the road that were operating in the area with defects.
According to a report at http://www.bendigoadvertiser.com.au/:
MORE than half the trucks inspected yesterday in a joint operation between Bendigo police and VicRoads were found to be defective.
A blitz on the roadworthiness of trucks was run from 7am to 1pm on High Street, Kangaroo Flat, with 67 vehicles stopped and reviewed.
Of the 67 trucks inspected, 36 defect notices were issued, ranging from problems with tyres, windscreens, suspension and steering components to oil leaks.
Leading Senior Constable Pat Allan said a couple of trucks were in such a state of disrepair that they were pulled off the road immediately and not allowed to drive any further.
“The focus is not so much to fine the drivers, but to make sure the owners and operators are doing their bit to maintain safety,” he said.
The statewide review on trucks through Operation Trishula found 80 per cent of trucks checked had major defects and were a safety risk for all road users.
VicRoads regional director Mal Kersting urged all truck operators to make sure their vehicles were properly maintained.
“Most of the truck drivers caught admitted they did not realise the potential consequences of the defects,” Mr Kersting said. “We are not out to fine people with this operation – what we are looking for is ways to keep our roads safe.
“Times are tough for some operators, but that can’t be an excuse for unsafe vehicles on the road.”
Safety is the responsibility of everyone in the supply chain and not just the driver that drives the truck.
Whilst the driver has an obligation to ensure the truck is safe prior to taking out each load and should refuse to drive any truck that could be dangerous till it is fixed there are others in the Supply Chain that can help shoulder this responsibility to improve safety and reduce heavy vehicle fatalities.
