Unsafe commercial trucks in South Okanagan targeted in RCMP operation

More than 90 commercial trucks were pulled over on Highway 97 in the South Okanagan over two days and 15 of those were so unsafe they were removed from the road.

“Good operators are getting undercut by unsafe drivers who do not spend money on repairs and maintenance,” BC Highway Patrol media relations officer Cpl. Michael McLaughlin said in a media release.

RCMP officers and members with Commercial Vehicle Safety and Enforcement teamed up to target unsafe trucks near Osoyoos, Feb. 26, and north of Summerland, March 7.

When investigators spot a vehicle with a suspected mechanical or safety problem they’re pulled over for a more in-depth inspection.

During the two days, more than 90 light and heavy commercial vehicles were checked, 47 violation tickets were handed out, and 68 further inspections and repairs were ordered.

McLaughlin said not only do these joint operations between the CVSE and the highway patrol make the roads safer, they encourage a level playing field for most of the commercial truck drivers who are following the law and “take pride in their work.”