The growing perception that drivers should pay is wrong! says JIM McGIVERON -

There seems to be a growing perception in the transport industry that drivers must pay any overloading fines issued by Main Roads WA.

This is not generally the case In fact it is often the company who is responsible for the overloading costs.

Different if a driver knowingly overloads but that rarely happens. Most overloading occurs when the driver is unable to assess the weight of a load - such as where there is no weighbridge available. Or, where the company leans on drivers to overload. If you are not responsible ask the Main Roads inspectors to send the prosecution notice to your employer.

The driver's details should only be used for assessing the fine - if there is to be one. The authorities will take into account a driver's record. If there have been no previous offences, the fine will be higher. Or lower, if the record is good. But that doesn't necessarily mean drivers are to be held responsible.

If you feel you have been treated unfairly, call the TWU and we'll assess the situation.