An evaluation of the roadworthiness of Victorian buses
Keywords: Heavy Vehicles - Trucks, Buses, Hazardous Materials, Heavy Vehicles
ACRS
Submission Date: 2018 Conference: ARSC
Abstract
As part of a project investigating the relationship between bus roadworthiness and safety outcomes, this study examined annual inspection results to identify the incidence and characteristics of mechanical failures. The findings showed that about one in five buses had issues that may have compromised safety, with Body & Chassis and Steering & Suspension comprising the highest incidence of defects. Registered buses were much less roadworthy than accredited ones. Vehicle age was found to be an important influential factor, with the effect varying across operation type. The implications of the findings in enhancing bus roadworthiness and safety were discussed.