Nearly one in two HGVs checked in Ireland have been found to have a roadworthiness defect, according to data published the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and An Garda Síochána.
According to the Irish Examiner, the figures showed 25% of the 9,500 HGVs surveyed between 2018 and 2020 contained a “major defect”. An additional 4% had “dangerous defects”, with 20% having „minor defects”.
The most frequently detected major defects regarded faults with lighting systems, badly worn braking components and defective ABS.
As a result of the worrying figures, drivers have been urged to conduct checks on their lorries before embarking on any trip.
Commenting on the checks, assistant Commissioner Paula Hilman warned that driving a defective vehicle can result in 5 penalty points and a fine of up to €5,000.
“We want to remind HGV operators that they have a responsibility to ensure their vehicle is kept in a roadworthy condition at all times. Doing so will not only keep the driver safe but will ensure the safety of other motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists, who share the roads with these large vehicles. A quarter of the heavy goods vehicles inspected had major defects, which if not addressed as soon as they occur, have the potential to develop into dangerous defects. If convicted driving a dangerously defective vehicle, drivers can expect 5 penalty points and a fine of up to €5,000. No driver wants to lose their licence and their livelihood so ensure your vehicle is always roadworthy. We will continue to work with the RSA in carrying out roadside checks and getting potentially unsafe goods vehicles off our roads.”
Photo credit: David Dixon / Geograph Ireland