What truck accessories are enforced by law in New Zealand

Truck accessories are items that can be added to a truck to improve its functionality or style. While some truck accessories in New Zealand are purely for aesthetic purposes, there are some that are essential for the safety and operation of the vehicle. Here are some truck accessories that are enforced by law in New Zealand.

As in many other countries, the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) requires that all trucks operating on New Zealand roads have certain minimum safety standards. This includes having certain accessories fitted to the truck.

Among the accessories that NZTA requires haulage trucks to have are:

Brakes

All haulage trucks must have an effective braking system that is able to stop the truck within a safe distance. The brakes must also be able to hold the truck on a gradient.

Lights and reflectors

All haulage trucks must be fitted with front and rear position lights, as well as brake lights, indicator lights and reversing lights. The truck must also have reflectors on the front, rear and sides.

Mirrors

All haulage trucks must be fitted with mirrors on the left and right sides of the cab. The mirrors must be positioned so that the driver has a clear view of the road behind the truck.

Tyres

All haulage trucks must have tyres that are in good condition and of the correct size for the truck. The tyre tread depth must be at least 1.6mm.

Windscreen wipers and washers

All haulage trucks must have windscreen wipers and washers that are in good working order. The wipers must be able to clear the windscreen of rain, snow or other debris.

Coupling and uncoupling devices

All haulage trucks must have a coupling device that is suitable for the type of trailer being used. The device must be able to couple and uncouple the trailer from the truck quickly and easily.

Safety chains

All haulage trucks must have at least two safety chains fitted between the truck and the trailer. The chains must be of a suitable size and strength for the type of trailer being used.

Wheel chocks

All haulage trucks must have at least two-wheel chocks. The chocks must be placed under the wheels of the trailer when it is not coupled to the truck. This prevents the trailer from rolling away when it is not being used.

Fire extinguisher

All haulage trucks must have a fire extinguisher that is suitable for use on truck fires. The extinguisher must be easily accessible and in good working order.

Speed limiters

All haulage trucks must have a speed limiter fitted. The speed limiter must be set so that the truck cannot exceed the maximum speed limit for the type of road it is travelling on.

Breakaway Brakes

If your truck is carrying a load that weighs more than 1,000 kg, you’ll need to have breakaway brakes fitted to the vehicle. Breakaway brakes are designed to activate if the trailer becomes detached from the truck, and will bring the vehicle to a stop. This is a safety measure to ensure that the vehicle can be brought to a stop even if the trailer becomes detached.

What are the penalties for not having these accessories?

Not having the proper truck accessories in New Zealand can result in some hefty penalties. Some of the more common required accessories include mud flaps, load binders, and reflectors.

Depending on the severity of the offence, penalties can range from a slap on the wrist to a large fine. In some cases, not having the proper truck accessories can even lead to jail time. So, if you plan on driving a truck in New Zealand, be sure to have all the required accessories.

Conclusion

These are just some of the truck accessories that are enforced by law in New Zealand. For more information on what you need to do to operate your truck safely and legally, you should contact the New Zealand Transport Agency.