Safety Fears After Hampshire Road Checks

7 February 2013, 07:00

Almost three quarters of commercial vehicles pulled over in Hampshire and the Thames Valley last month were breaking a law.

Police say it's after a total of 46 checks were carried out and 34 lorries, buses and vans were found to be committing an offence. 

The most common problem was drivers spending too long on the road without a rest.

Chief Inspector Andy Bottomley, who heads up roads policing in Hampshire, has told Heart he is "worried" about the figure. 

But James Hookham from the Freight Transport Association says the majority are sticking to the rules. He said: "Most companies attempt to try to do this properly.

"They recognise the importance of driving safely and they recognise the responsibility they have to other road users.

"A lot of companies put a lot of time and effort into making sure they do comply with the regulations. 

"This kind of enforcement can only help to reinforce the message that there should be no place to hide here for those that choose not to comply."