The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is reminding truck drivers and operators around the country to check the safety of their fleets following predictions of above-average rainfall and increased traffic on the roads.
According to NHVR CEO, Sal Petroccitto, drivers and operators need to make safety and preparedness a top priority, emphasising that hazardous driving behaviour combined with poor weather conditions can make for danger on the road.
“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.
“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 in light of these wet conditions.
“Faulty or ineffective brakes are a serious safety concern,” Petroccitto said.
“As prolonged and intense rainfall hits parts of the country, the risks are amplified. 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 safety checks of their vehicles daily, prior to commencing a transport journey, with the help of a pre-start checklist such as the NHVR’s Daily Safety Checklist which covers a range of precautions.
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.