Q Can any two-axle rigid vehicle legally operate at 14
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tons gross? If not, is there a minimum unladen weight, say 3 tons, which governs the 14 tons gross figure?
AThere has never been a minimum unladen weight qualification governing the maximum grass weight of 14 tons for an unplated four-wheeler. Consequently a 7-tonner can operate at 14 tons gross without being open to prosecution on the basis of gross weight.
But it would be possible for a charge to be made on the grounds of operating a vehicle in an unsafe condition or for not being able to stop within a reasonable distance. However, there could be problems in successful prosecution except in glaring cases of overloading.
The changes in the C and U Regulations which require plating on new vehicles for maximum axle and gross weight from January 1 1968, in conjunction with braking efficiency requirements, are aimed at increasing safety.
Existing vehicles will not be limited to gross weights until they are plated at their first annual test. The tests begin in the middle of 1968. But from January 1 1968 all vehicles on the road will have to be capable of stopping with specified braking efficiencies slightly less than the full 50 per cent main and 25 per cent secondary efficiencies. This must result in a reduction in the number of vehicles on the road that at present operate above their manufacturers' recommended load figure.