Provincial police say several commercial vehicles were taken out of service following a joint safety blitz on Highway 17.
Members of the Ontario Provincial Police and enforcement officers with the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario conducted the inspection campaign March 24 in Laurentian Hills, focusing on mechanical safety.
Police say 40 commercial motor vehicles were stopped, with 10 undergoing detailed inspections under Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance standards. Four vehicles were deemed unsafe and taken out of service.
Officers laid 14 charges under the Highway Traffic Act for issues including improper brakes, failure to conduct pre-trip inspections, missing licence plates and logbook violations. One additional charge was issued under the Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act.
Police also conducted more than 30 roadside alcohol screenings and say all drivers complied with the zero blood-alcohol requirement for commercial operators.
The OPP say similar enforcement initiatives will continue throughout the year.
(Steve Berard)