ACT Policing has added its support to the heavy vehicle industry during Truck Week, warning of the difficulties faced by truck drivers when there is a lack of consideration by other road users.
Truck Week runs until Friday, and is promoted by the Australian Trucking Association and Trucksafe as a mean of highlighting the common issues faced by heavy vehicle drivers across the country.
Traffic Operations Sergeant Rod Anderson said that slower-accelerating, slower-braking heavy vehicles sharing the road with smaller vehicles and cyclists created the potential compatibility issues, and that it was a collective responsibility for road users to be courteous and look out for each other.
“Driving a heavy truck, particularly in slow-moving traffic, is difficult enough. When other road users dangerously cut in front when the truck is braking for a traffic light, or a car races for the inside lane when a semi-trailer is attempting a sharp turn, there’s the potential for a serious collision,” Sergeant Anderson said.
“It’s all about being a safe and a more aware road user, regardless of what you drive or ride. People should be aware that trucks need longer distances to stop, and more room to turn. And they should always be aware that if you can’t see the truck’s side mirrors, the driver can’t see you.
“From a police perspective, we view heavy vehicle drivers as generally safe and law-abiding; as professional drivers, their livelihood depends on it.”
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