KUALA LUMPUR: Small lorries, trailers, and container trucks have been identified as the leading contributors to commercial vehicle accidents from January to September, with authorities issuing nearly 40,000 summonses during this period.
Federal Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department director Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri said the department took road accidents involving commercial vehicles very seriously, particularly those that resulted in fatalities and injuries to other road users.
During the first nine months of the year, a total of 168 accidents involving commercial vehicles were recorded, including 97 fatalities, 32 cases of serious injuries, and 39 minor injuries. Sixteen of these incidents involved service vehicles.
"The department remains committed to intensifying enforcement against commercial vehicles that violate traffic laws and regulations nationwide. We will not compromise and will take firm action to ensure the safety of all road users," he said in a statement.
To bolster enforcement, the department has ramped up its efforts through Op Perdagangan, a nationwide initiative.
From January to September, a total of 4,822 operations were conducted, resulting in the issuance of 38,367 summonses and the impounding of 177 vehicles for various violations.
Primary offences identified include carrying hazardous loads, absence of warning triangles, worn-out tyres, non-functional signal and brake lights, and improperly secured loads.
Yusri said that enforcement actions would continue under the Road Transport Act 1987 and the Land Public Transport Act 2010.
He also urged employers and operators of commercial vehicles to conduct thorough internal assessments, including ensuring drivers' health, preparedness, and driving skills were up to standard.
He said regular vehicle maintenance and adherence to vehicle inspection requirements were essential to ensure roadworthiness.
"All road users are urged to comply with traffic laws and regulations and practise safe, courteous driving for their own safety and that of others," he added.