Police Issue 15 Penalty Notices To Lorry Drivers During London Sting

The Freight Transport Association (FTA) has warned there is no excuse for poor standards when it comes to road safety.

Managing director of policy and communications at the organisation James Hookham said he is aware of a police operation that took place in London earlier this week (November 19th), in which 15 penalty notices totalling £2,300 were handed out to lorry drivers.

Officers from the Metropolitan Police Service pulled over 70 trucks in three locations across the capital and discovered a number of different offences were being committed.

The Safer Traffic Command also spoke to around 100 cyclists, giving them useful tips on how to stay safe when travelling around the city.

Six cyclists have died in accidents in London in the past two weeks and many of these incidents have involved heavy goods vehicles, which has prompted the FTA to get involved.

Mr Hookham believes there are three things fleet operators need to consider in order to remain compliant - driver training, vehicle maintenance and effective management.

"Road safety is crucial for all; FTA believes it is extremely important that everyone should share roads safely," he commented.

"It is imperative that all commercial vehicles on our roads are fully maintained and roadworthy, and that all drivers are competent and comply with the rules on breaks and rests."

The FTA conducts approximately 100,000 vehicle inspections each year and also provides courses to around 8,000 of its members on road safety.

Industry bodies such as the FTA and Road Haulage Association have reiterated the fact that it is a false economy for fleets to take risks that may put road users in harm's way, as the penalties for non-compliance can be huge.

Expert Opinion

We welcome this safety guidance from the Freight Transport Association. Heavy goods vehicle drivers not being sufficiently safety conscious and HGV operators not properly maintaining their fleets are common causes of some of the most serious accidents on our roads. <br/> <br/>“Whilst the majority of haulage firms have exemplary records and take these matters very seriously , at Irwin Mitchell we are regularly asked for help by cyclists, pedestrians and other motorists who have suffered horrific, life-changing injuries as a result of being in a collision with a lorry. <br/> <br/>“We work to secure vital care and rehabilitation packages but obviously nothing can turn back the clock for our clients or make up for the injuries they suffered. <br/> <br/>“We hope this latest action by the Safer Traffic Command acts as a reminder to all road users about the importance of safety to keep both them and others safe.” <br/> Stephen Nye - Partner