NHVR issues drive cam warning

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator has warned truck drivers of breaching width restrictions with the fitment of a drive camera recorder

With increasing numbers of truck and other commercial vehicle operators installing 'dash cam'-style drive recorders in their vehicles, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator has issued a warning highlighting the potential perils of mounting an external camera on the side of a heavy vehicle.

Unless specific permits are obtained, heavy vehicles must not exceed a width of 2.5 metres – meaning the installation of a camera could well breach this limit.

Under the Heavy Vehicle (Mass, Dimension and Loading) National Regulation 2013, all components other than certain defined items must be included in a heavy vehicle's width. The items not included in determining a heavy vehicle's width comprise anti-skid devices mounted on wheels, central tyre inflation systems, lights, mirrors, reflectors, signalling devices and tyre pressure gauges.

The NHVR has also cautioned drivers on the placement of dashboard or reversing cameras inside their vehicles. If such a device interferes with a driver's field of vision or is a distraction, it could potentially be breaching state and territory transport laws.

For more information on mass, dimension and loading limits for heavy vehicles, visit www.nhvr.gov.au/mdl

NHVR issues drive cam warning

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