The lack of adequate truck rest area infrastructure along key freight lines needs to be remedied.
That’s the opinion of NatRoad.
The industry body has spoken up about the lack of Heavy Vehicle Rest Areas following the recent publishing of the Austroads Guidelines for the Provision of Rest Area Facilities.
“The National Guidelines are valuable, but a similar set was issued by the National Transport Commission in 2005 and 14 years on, there are still many freight routes that don’t have adequate number of rest areas with decent facilities.” – NatRoad CEO, Warren Clark.
“NatRoad has repeatedly said that there is an urgent need to build and maintain enough heavy vehicle rest areas with appropriate facilities.
“All too often truck stops aren’t located where they are required, and even where they do exist availability of spaces and basic amenities can be a problem.
“Lack of adequate rest areas is a critical road safety issue, not just for heavy vehicle drivers but all road users.
“Government action is the key to solving this problem.”
And it isn’t just state and federal politicians that need to act according to the NatRoad chief.
“Local councils and governments need to acknowledge the immediate need to build heavy vehicle rest facilities that provide basic needs together with security on site, so that drivers feel comfortable and safe when on the road.
“We now look to the national and local authorities to set out plans to ensure there are adequate facilities on key freight routes so that heavy vehicle drivers can effectively manage their fatigue and comply with their legal work and rest obligations in rest areas that provide them with decent levels of service.”
- Related: ATA welcomes new Truck Rest Area Guidelines
- Related: ATA demands better facilities at truck rest areas
- Related: Sydney council to get tough on parked trucks
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