The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is urging truck drivers and operators to check that their fleets are ‘up to scratch’ amid predictions of above-average rainfall and increased traffic.
NHVR CEO, Sal Petroccitto, said drivers and operators should be prioritising safety and preparedness as risky driving combined with poor weather conditions can prove to be a dangerous combination.
“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 completed,” he said.
“This includes testing windshield wipers as well as their lights, including headlights, hazard lights and brake lights, and inspecting their vehicle’s 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.”
Additionally, the NHVR is reminding drivers of the critical importance of brake safety as heavy rainfall continues to impact roadways across some states.
“Faulty or ineffective brakes are a serious safety concern, and as prolonged and intense rainfall hits parts of the country, the risks are amplified,” Petroccitto said.
“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.”
The NHVR recommends drivers complete daily safety checks of their vehicles before undertaking transport journeys, with the help of a pre-start checklist such as the NHVR’s Daily Safety Checklist which covers a range of areas such as brakes, couplings, wheels and tyres.
Petroccitto added that NHVR Safety and Compliance Officers are also at the roadside, ready to inform and educate drivers and assist them with their compliance when required.
“Our officers have spent more than 1,400 hours providing one-on-one driver education at the roadside so far this year across all NHVR jurisdictions, on heavy vehicle roadworthiness alone,” he said.
“Drivers are always encouraged to have a chat with our officers if they have questions regarding their compliance – they are always happy to help ensure their movements are safe and efficient.”
The NHVR is also reminding general motorists to keep longer driving distances between their vehicle and a truck, with trucks unable to stop suddenly and requiring longer braking distances particularly in the wet weather.
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