June 3, 2016
Almost 30 drivers tested positive to illegal drugs – and six were allegedly over the blood alcohol limit – during a statewide police operation targeting truck and bus drivers in May.
More than 10,000 heavy vehicles were pulled over by police, and 4600 drivers underwent roadside drink and drug-driving testing.
The annual traffic operation, StateTrans 2016, involved officers from the Road Policing Command and Transport and Main Roads conducting roadside inspections of heavy vehicles to ensure road safety compliance.
Work diaries were also checked.
Road Policing Command Assistant Commissioner Mike Keating said while police were pleased with the vast majority of heavy vehicle drivers, there were some drivers whose actions were completely irresponsible.
“It was concerning to see 29 drivers of heavy vehicles returning positive results for drug driving while six drivers were charged with drink driving,” Assistant Commissioner Keating said.
“Driving large vehicles while under the influence of drugs and alcohol is completely unacceptable.
“It increases your chances of making poor decisions on the roads which could be fatal for yourself and in heavy vehicles in particular, other road users.
“A traffic crash involving a heavy vehicle can have catastrophic consequences, particularly when it involves a smaller vehicle, cyclist or motorbike as the risk of injury or death is significantly higher.”
StateTrans 2016 also netted 13 drug-related offences, six unlicensed, suspended or disqualified drivers and 96 unregistered and/or uninsured vehicles.
As well, 60 critical cases of exceeding work or failing to take a required rest break were detected, 75 drivers failed to produce a work diary, 258 drivers failed to complete their work diary and 18 heavy vehicles severely exceeded their mass.
Queensland Trucking Association Ltd CEO Gary Mahon said the operation was an important annual initiative that shone a light on heavy vehicle road safety issues like fatigue management and drug use.
“Overall the results of the month-long enforcement operation are a positive report card for our industry, highlighting that a safe heavy vehicle transport industry benefits all road users,” Mr Mahon said.
“It’s encouraging that professional drivers in our industry are taking their safety responsibilities very seriously. However it’s disappointing to see that a few companies and drivers are operating unsafely.”
He said fatigue was one of the main contributing factors to road trauma.
“For those who substantially breached their driving hours, your actions can only be criticised,” he said.
