Police concern remains high as dangerous practice shows no sign of disappearing
May 31, 2013
The first week of the heavy vehicle compliance campaign, Operation Austrans, shows speed limiter tampering is still evident in New South Wales, authorities say.
NSW Police Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander Assistant Commissioner John Hartley says police will continue to target drivers as some of the 700 trucks that were intercepted had speed limiters tampered with.
Along with fatigue breaches, the police also issued 27 infringements and 27 court attendance notices, along with 97 defect notices which saw trucks with faulty brakes, wheels, tyres, lights and suspension.
“Results from the Mt Boyce and Bell areas of NSW certainly justify our focus on poor heavy-vehicle standards in the transport industry,” Hartley says.
“With 13 percent of vehicles stopped (and) issued a defect notice, operators and drivers must ensure that their trucks and loads comply with safety standards.
“The fact we are still seeing speed limiter tampering is very concerning and police will continue to patrol for those drivers that are risking their lives on our roads.”
Meanwhile, South Australia Police targeted three truck stops during the same campaign.
More than 1,400 vehicles were inspected across the state, with 132 found with defects.
One driver was arrested and 27 were charged with various offences.
Another 192 ‘expiation notices’ were issued.
