Results of Joint Forces Truck Blitz "very concerning,"

Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 2:06 PM
14 Division
416-808-1400

On Tuesday July 14, 2009, the 14 Division Traffic Response Unit conducted a Commercial motor vehicle inspection blitz at British Columbia Road and Lakeshore Boulevard West.

As a result of the inspection:

• 61 trucks were inspected
• 31 trucks were taken out of service for safety violations
• 3 trucks were taken out of service for driver’s license violations
• 35 charges were laid, related to either mechanical or administrative offences

Mechanical deficiencies included:

• Faulty or improperly adjusted brakes
• No emergency brakes
• Insecure or overweight loads
• Faulty rims or tires
• Steering
• Suspension
• Ball and socket joints
• No brake lights

Administrative deficiencies included:

• Improper class of license
• No air brake endorsement
• No annual inspection certificate
• No inspection report
• No inspection schedule
• No C.V.O.R. (Commercial Vehicle Operator’s Registration)
• No proof of insurance
• Expired validation on plate
• No company name displayed on truck

It is reported that a heavy truck was found to have a front tire which was worn down to the inner threads, a second truck had a bulging tire on the verge of bursting, and a Ministry Officer inspecting a dual-axle truck discovered it had four of six brakes completely inoperable.

Trucks with mechanical issues were parked on scene and awaited the arrival of a repair crew or tow truck.

Sergeant Roy Sorgo said, "It is the responsibility of the driver and owner of a vehicle to ensure the safety of the vehicle and its load, before being driven on our highways and streets. Failing to do so puts everyone at risk. The results of our inspection are very concerning."

The Toronto Police Service thanks the Ministry of Transportation and York Regional Police for their assistance and participation in this enforcement blitz. Traffic safety continues to be a core priority for the Toronto Police Service. Ensuring that heavy trucks and other commercial vehicles are operating safely is a vital component of that priority.

Constable Wendy Drummond, Public Information, for Sergeant Roy Sorgo, 14 Division