A B.C. Highway Patrol officer was en route to the post office in Fort Nelson on June 19 when a tractor-trailer blocking the way in a parking lot got his attention.
One of the two tandem truck drivers started making a U-turn when the truck, which was carrying a load of mail, broke down.
While attempting to make the maneuver, “the trailer had snapped a rear axle and blown its axle air bags,” Highway Patrol said.
According to B.C. Highway Patrol Corporal Michael McLaughlin, these mechanical issues were only the beginning of trouble for the drivers. When police officers arrived to speak with the drivers, they discovered some inconsistencies.
“Both drivers were ticketed for falsified or incorrect log books. Meanwhile, their trailer had to be towed away on a flat deck for a thorough inspection,” McLaughlin said.
While waiting for the tow from an official company, a competitor tow truck arrived hoping to haul the vehicle. According to Highway Patrol, the driver of that tow truck also received a ticket for using an electronic device while behind the wheel.
McLaughlin said this should serve as a reminder of the importance of safety for commercial drivers – especially those who operate big rigs.
“When they don’t take their responsibilities seriously enough, B.C. Highway Patrol will be there,” he warned.
Highway Patrol has not released the names of any of the drivers involved in the incident.
