The approach into this year’s holiday season is set to come with wetter, busier roads than initially anticipated, and NHVR CEO Sal Petrocitto has urged all fleet owners and operators to ensure their vehicles are up to scratch.
Petroccitto says above average rainfall and increased traffic on roads is a risky enough combination without adding in risky driving behaviours or poorly maintained vehicles.
“We’re calling on industry to be extra cautious when checking their vehicles before each journey commences, ensuring routine vehicle maintenance is up to date and pre-departure maintenance checks have been complete,” he says.
“This includes testing windshield wipers as well as their lights, including headlights, hazard lights and brake lights, and inspecting their vehicles tyres to ensure they are in top condition.
“Even minor defects can have serious consequences, especially with poor weather presenting further challenges such as reduced visibility, slippery roads and longer stopping distances.
“Wet weather can be unpredictable, which is why we are encouraging drivers to check local traffic and weather updates regularly and adjust their schedules and routes accordingly.”
Increased wet weather also hammers home the importance of brake safety, with trucks requiring longer stopping distances in the wet.
“A well-maintained braking system with correctly adjusted brakes is essential in any situation, especially when driving through the wet weather conditions we have been experiencing recently,” Petroccitto continues.
“Faulty or ineffective brakes are a serious safety concern, and as prolonged an intense rainfall hits parts of the country the risks are amplified.”
NHVR Safety and Compliance Officers will also be available on the roadside of jurisdictions to assist drivers with compliance where required.
“Our officers have spent more than 1400 hours providing one-on-one driver education at the roadside so far this year across all NHVR jurisdictions – on heavy vehicle roadworthiness alone,” Petroccitto says.
“Drivers are always encouraged to have a chat to our officers if they have questions regarding their compliance. They are always happy to help ensure movements are safe and efficient.”
The regulator has recommended the use of daily checks and pre-start checklists to ensure vehicles are compliant before hitting the road, and has its own Daily Safety Checklist which can be accessed here.
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