The police blitz in Kangaroo Flat yesterday. Picture: Jodie Donnellan
MORE than half the trucks inspected yesterday in a joint operation between Bendigo police and VicRoads were found to be defective.
A blitz on the road worthiness of trucks was run from 7am to 1pm on High Street, Kangaroo Flat, with 67 vehicles stopped and reviewed.
Of the 67 trucks inspected, 36 defect notices were issued, ranging from problems with tyres, windscreens, suspension and steering components to oil leaks.
Leading Senior Constable Pat Allan said a couple of trucks were in such a state of disrepair that they were pulled off the road immediately and not allowed to drive any further.
“The focus is not so much to fine the drivers, but to make sure the owners and operators are doing their bit to maintain safety,” he said.
The statewide review on trucks through Operation Trishula found 80 per cent of trucks checked had major defects and were a safety risk for all road users.
VicRoads regional director Mal Kersting urged all truck operators to make sure their vehicles were properly maintained.
“Most of the truck drivers caught admitted they did not realise the potential consequences of the defects,” Mr Kersting said. “We are not out to fine people with this operation – what we are looking for is ways to keep our roads safe.
“Times are tough for some operators, but that can’t be an excuse for unsafe vehicles on the road.”
