Loads up to 13% over
Page 16
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
by Peter Swingler • More than 6001 of trucks weighed during an investigation last month were found to be overloaded— including one 38-tonner which was found to weigh more than 51 tonnes.
The swoops were carried out in three joint operations in Birmingham city centre by the West Midlands Police and Birmingham Trading Standards Officers.
Of 67 lorries checked, 43 (64%) were reported for being overloaded.
The worst offender found was a lorry which was carrying two and a half times the legally permitted weight.
In another instance a 38tonne lorry weighed in at more than 51 tonnes—tipping the scales "at 73% overweight" says Inspector Gary Bullock who was present at the checks.
Birminghambased Inspector Bullock, says: "In each operation more Of 67 lorries checked, 43 were overloaded. than half the vehicles checked were exceeding the weight limit. They have been reported and prosecutions are being considered.
"The situation is worrying in terms of road safety as overloaded vehicles are more difficult to control, increasing the possibility of traffic accidents. Additionally, overloaded lorries put increased wear and tear on the roads.
"It is also unfair for unscrupulous freight operators who turn a blind eye to overloading to gain an advantage over law-abiding operators by avoiding paying higher duty for larger vehicles.
"I would urge all operators to become road-safety conscious and conform to the legal weight limits for their vehicles."
The operators' names have not been disclosed by the police.