The NHVR reminds road users to be well rested before getting behind the wheel as Road Safety Week approaches, shining a spotlight on motorists’ behaviour.
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In Queensland from January to June 2024, the NHVR saw more than 180 fatigue related offences across the heavy vehicle sector, including drivers exceeding their permitted work hours, or failing to record work and rest hours.
NHVR Sal Petroccitto says driver fatigue behind the wheel can have disastrous outcomes, as exhaustion continues to be one of the primary causes of road fatality across the country.
“What we are saying to all road users is driving while tired is simply not worth the risk,” he says.
“For our truck drivers out there, I want to remind you that it does not matter what time pressures or deadline you are working to, your safety and the safety of all road users is far more important.”
Petroccitto says truckies need to ensure they manage the amount of work they do in a 24-hour period and rest any time they feel tired.
He reminds transport companies and workers across the heavy vehicle supply chain to remember the safety of their driver’s is the number one priority and they are operating within their safety obligations under the Heavy Vehicle National Law.
“Parties in the Chain of Responsibility, especially employers and operators, need effective control measures in place to manage fatigue,” he says.
NHVR COO Paul Salvati says the NHVR’s Safety and Compliance Officers in Queensland provide education to drivers based on the compliance breaches detected.
“Heavy vehicle drivers travelling across Queensland, particularly in regional and remote areas, can expect to receive education from our on-road officers on their safety obligations under the Heavy Vehicle National Law,” he says.
The NHVR and Queensland Police Service invite the heavy vehicle industry to stop in and have a chat about road safety at Roadside Information Hubs held from 26-30 August, across key route areas in Moonie, Goondiwindi, Charlton and North Toowoomba.
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