Queensland Police says most trucking companies take their responsibilities seriously.
Heavy vehicle driver fatigue has been identified as a concern in Queensland after the completion of this year’s Operation Austrans, which targets the trucking industry.
Queensland Police says the majority of offences detected during the operation related to fatigue management.
More than 12,500 heavy vehicles were inspected throughout the state, resulting in officers detecting 794 fatigue-related offences and 280 instances of drivers exceeding their work hours or failing to take a required rest break.
Deputy commissioner Ross Barnett says fatigue in the heavy vehicle industry is a major concern for police agencies.
“The biggest contributing factor in road crashes involving heavy vehicles is driver fatigue,” Barnett says.
Officers issued 216 speeding infringement notices and 127 fines for driving without a seatbelt.
“Out of 1,077 roadside drug tests, 20 drivers returned alleged positive readings. Out of 11,369 roadside breath tests conducted, 11 drivers returned alleged positive readings,” Barnett says.
“Most professional drivers take their business and their safety responsibilities very seriously. However, there are a few heavy vehicle companies and drivers who operate unsafely.”
Austrans began on May 12 and wrapped up on June 8