COQUITLAM RCMP conducted a joint operation for commercial vehicle safety, resulting in 16 unsafe vehicles being removed from local roadways.

On March 4, Coquitlam RCMP conducted commercial vehicle safety checks in conjunction with multiple partner agencies. Coquitlam RCMP worked in collaboration with officers from BC Highway Patrol-IIDU, Vancouver Police Department, Metro Vancouver Transit Police, News Westminster Police Department, Delta Police Department, Port Coquitlam Bylaws, Coquitlam Bylaws, Township of Langley Bylaws and WorkSafeBC.

A total of 28 commercial vehicles were inspected with 16 of them being put out of service due to serious safety issues. A total of 69 vehicle defects were noted and 12 violation tickets were issued.

Police say joint operations involving multiple police and bylaw agencies significantly enhance the effectiveness of enforcement efforts. This collaboration is especially critical for commercial vehicle enforcement, as trucks and transport operators routinely cross municipal boundaries throughout the Lower Mainland.

Officers stopped a truck that was pulling a trailer that was 5,260 kilograms overweight as permitted by its insurance. It was also overweight for its axle weight and tire limits. Additionally, the trucks tires and chains were very worn (see photos).

“Commercial vehicle operators have a responsibility to ensure their vehicles are operated within the law and remain in safe working condition,” says Staff-Sgt. Mark McCutcheon, Coquitlam RCMP Traffic Unit, “Failing to properly maintain their vehicles and operating outside of what’s legally permitted, puts all road users at significant risk.”

Coquitlam RCMP say they remain committed to enhancing road safety for all users and will continue to carry out targeted enforcement initiatives to address high-risk behaviours.