The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has issued an urgent reminder to the nation's truck drivers and operators to check their heavy vehicle fleets are up to scratch, amid predictions of above-average rainfall and increased traffic on the roads.
NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto OAM said drivers and operators should be making safety and preparedness a top priority, emphasising that risky driving behaviour combined with adverse weather conditions could 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," Mr Petroccitto 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."
Mr Petroccitto said the regulator is also reminding drivers of the critical importance of brake safety, as relentless rain 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," he 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 undertake a daily check of their vehicle prior to commencing their journey, using a pre-start checklist such as the NHVR's Daily Safety Checklist, which covers areas such as brakes, couplings and wheels and tyres.
Mr Petroccitto said NHVR Safety and Compliance Officers are also at the roadside, ready to inform and educate drivers and assist them with their compliance where 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," Mr Petroccitto said.
"Drivers are always encouraged to have a chat to our officers if they 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.
