The NZ Transport Agency is seeking feedback on proposed changes to the offences and penalties framework for heavy vehicle operations.
The proposed changes alter the offences and penalties incurred by freight operators whose vehicles are detected as exceeding either the weight limits stated in Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Dimensions and Mass 2002, or those set out in a permit.
The proposed changes aim to better align fines and penalties with the safety risk posed by different types of offences. Some fines would be increased for vehicles operating overweight without a permit while other fines would be reduced for minor breaches of permit requirements. The changes would create graduated offences, with appropriate penalties, for breaches by permit holders and increase the levels of fines for overweight vehicles if the vehicle doesn’t have a permit.
The aim of these changes is to provide a more appropriate offences and penalties framework, while creating an environment that encourages safer practice.
The NZ Transport Agency is leading the public consultation, with submissions closing by 5pm on 7 April 2014.
For more information on this proposed amendment rules, go to http://www.nzta.govt.nz/consultation/overweight-and-high-productivity-motor-vehicles/index.html(external link).
For more information contact:
Andy Knackstedt
Media Manager
NZ Transport Agency
T. 04 894 6285
M. 021 276 3222
E. andrew.knackstedt@nzta.govt.nz
