THOUSANDS of Tasmanian cars every year are getting defect stickers slapped on them and even being put off the road because they are not roadworthy.
Tasmania Police has revealed that last year it issued more than 7600 vehicle defect notices as concerns increase over the number of unsafe cars on the state's roads.
The RACT's annual winter car checks around the state also found that more than 60 per cent of cars inspected were poorly maintained.
A vehicle defect notice is issued when a vehicle is thought to constitute an immediate and serious risk. The notice specifies what needs to be fixed and gives the vehicle owner a time frame to repair the defect or face having their registration suspended or cancelled.
The RACT says more than the usual problems with cars are starting to emerge.
RACT roadside and technical services general manager Darren Moody said recent free roadside checks at Kingston alarmingly found that child restraints in vehicles were poorly installed.
"In six cars with child restraints, the restraints had been either incorrectly installed or their safety benefits were compromised by loose straps," Mr Moody said.
"Some restraints were installed without the top tether strap attached which could prove very dangerous to youngsters in the event of a crash.
"Other cars had everything attached but the belts and straps weren't tight enough which would diminish their protective quality if there was a crash.
"Fitting a restraint can be difficult, but for the sake of children it must be done correctly."
Other major concerns were poor tyre condition and pressures.
The figure of 7674 defect notices is up from 7322 last financial year.
Road Safety Council chairman Bryan Green said the figures were concerning but he believed there was an overall improvement in the standard of vehicles on Tasmanian roads.
"The general affordability of vehicles, higher employment levels and the increase in general wealth, I think, has enabled Tasmanians to update their vehicles," Mr Green said.
Mr Green also ruled out the need for older cars to be forced over the inspection pits regularly.
"Older cars are rightly targeted by police but despite suggestions it should be compulsory for vehicles to undergo regular checks, I disagree.
"There is a huge cost associated with introducing a formal rigorous process like that and, at this stage, it is not being considered."
However, Mr Green said he would keep an eye on the trends and consider compulsory pit checks if necessary.
Last financial year Department of Infrastructure, Energy and Resources transport inspectors checked more than 18,000 vehicles.
The most common faults detected related to tyres, lights and oil leaks.
Mr Green said it was up to individuals to ensure their vehicles were up to scratch.
"We have transport inspectors out there ensuring vehicles are maintained properly but it is really incumbent on the individual," he said.
RACT's simple tips to keep your vehicle in tip-top shape
BATTERIES:
Don't be fooled by "low maintenance" or "maintenance free" batteries. Every battery needs to be topped up with distilled water regularly.
Corrosion that looks green or white around the terminals should be removed. If the corrosion won't come off, buy new terminals.
BRAKES:
Check brakes responsibly on a quiet, sealed road that is free from oil and water. Apply the brakes as hard as you can and note if the car pulls to one side or the pedal has to be pushed right to the floor.
All repairs should be done by a brake specialist.
TYRES:
Tyre tread should be checked regularly and a tyre should have a minimum of 3mm of tread. Most tyres also have wear bars at the bottom of the tyre groove which indicates wear levels.
The RACT recommends between two and 4psi above the recommended pressure.
WINDSCREEN:
Clear a fogged windscreen with a quick blast from the air-conditioner or a blast from warm or hot air.
Wiper blades should also be checked and replaced before each winter.
GARAGE:
Cars should be parked undercover at night and parking on a lawn should also be avoided where possible.
LIGHTS:
Lights should be checked regularly and the lenses kept clean.
SERVICING:
Service your vehicle regularly to keep it operating efficiently and save you thousands in repairs.
From Mercury Friday, 11th July, 2008 |
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