NSW roads authority has once again taken aim at rogue trucking operators, accusing them of ripping off honest companies
March 12, 2012
The NSW roads authority has once again taken aim at rogue trucking operators, accusing them of ripping off honest companies.
The Roads and Maritime Services joined with NSW Police last week to target Scott’s Transport. Authorities allege vehicles had been tampered with to travel faster, while some trucks were defected and drivers were nabbed for fatigue offences.
RMS Director of Customer and Compliance Peter Wells says 98 of the Scott’s fleet of 322 vehicles were intercepted, leading to 71 offences which included 18 speed limiter tampering breaches and 67 defect notices.
“Industry people who are breaking the law to get a commercial advantage are taking advantage unfairly and ripping off the many honest operators,” Wells says.
“It is no secret the few [companies and drivers] doing the wrong thing are painting an ugly picture for the industry and we are encouraging those many honest and professional companies and drivers to support us as we continue targeting the rogue operators.”
Wells says the operation was launched after a truck was detected travelling 142km/h last week.
“This is a ridiculous speed for any vehicle let alone a heavy vehicle,” he says.
“The NSW Government has announced it is getting tougher on those drivers who disregard the safety of other road users.
Roads Minister Duncan Gay last week announced he had tasked the RMS with targeting any truck caught travelling above 115km/h.
Wells says drivers will “bear the brunt of a full speed limiter inspection which can lead to fines in excess of $16,000 as well as the heavy costs of downtime and significant repair bills”.
“We’re giving the industry a warning. If you are travelling in or operating a speed limiter modified truck, get it back to factory specs or expect a heavy fine,” he says.
