Commercial Vehicle Checks Uncover Faults During Road Safety Campaign

Police in Thames Valley and Hampshire worked together. Their special team checked commercial vehicles. This was part of a national, two-week project headed by police chiefs.

This team focuses on road safety and ensures commercial vehicles follow rules. The team covers Thames Valley, Hampshire, and Isle of Wight. They enforce rules and tackle transport problems.

The unit watches trucks and vans because these vehicles cause more harm in crashes. The unit worked with groups like DVSA and Immigration Enforcement during the week. They also collaborated with other police forces.

The unit checked 166 commercial vehicles. They found problems with 135 of those, and 47 vehicles had dangerous issues. Thirteen cases went to traffic authorities.

Police found 350 traffic violations total and issued 58 roadside fines. Some fines included up to six penalty points. Police made six arrests during this time.

Commercial drivers face court if they fail drug tests. Traffic authorities will review their ability to drive separately from drug charges.

The unit deals with various vehicles including those carrying dangerous goods and construction vehicles. They also handle tractors and farm equipment.

The unit checks for issues like overweight vehicles, driving hours, and secure loads. They inspect vehicle condition alongside other traffic offenses like drunk driving and using phones.

Sergeant Paul Diamond leads the unit. He said checks targeted high-risk vehicles, but noted the safety figures are not representative of the industry.

He said the industry remains very safe and is professional. The unit helps law-abiding operators by removing the dangerous minority.