Troubled Trucks Withdrawal from Easter Traffic: Nearly Half Acknowledged Serious Defects
In a bid to promote road safety and prevent potential hazards, the regional traffic department in Grieskirchen, Austria, conducted targeted inspections in Kematen am Innbach, a town in Upper Austria, on Palm Sunday.
The inspections focused on the technical condition of 20 trucks and buses, with a particular emphasis on cargo loading, drivers' fitness, driving and rest times, and the vehicles' critical technical defects.
The results were concerning, as the inspections revealed a total of 84 technical defects across the 20 vehicles inspected. Three reports were filed under the EU regulation, one for each vehicle exceeding the permissible total weight, and eight for technical defects.
Unfortunately, eight vehicles were found with critical technical defects, preventing them from continuing their journey. As a result, the permits of these vehicles were immediately revoked, and €14,700 in security deposits were collected during the inspections.
Regional Councillor Günther Steinkellner (FPO) emphasised the importance of checking traffic and operational safety, stating that such measures are crucial for promoting road safety and preventing potential hazards.
Of the 20 vehicles inspected, 25% were found to have severe defects, highlighting the need for regular vehicle inspections and maintenance. The name of the vehicle inspector or head of the local traffic authority in Kematen am Innbach who conducted the inspections is not publicly available.
Despite the findings, the inspections in Kematen am Innbach were part of regular traffic department activities in the region, underscoring the ongoing commitment to ensuring road safety and compliance with EU regulations.
