KEY POINTS:
Truck drivers stopped by police in central Auckland yesterday had a pleasant surprise when the inspection they were expecting was in fact police just offering them a coffee and a snack.
Police stopped 197 trucks at the Stanley St weighbridge to show them how to recognise and prevent one of the leading causes of crashes - driver fatigue.
Senior Sergeant Brian Locke of the commercial vehicle investigation unit said that while the operation gave drivers a chance to take a break, it was also about creating a culture where fatigue was acknowledged in their work and private lives.
The dangers of road safety issues such as drink-driving were well known, but other lifestyle factors, such as having a new baby, could also make driving dangerous due to fatigue.
"It's one of the biggest risks among the commercial driving fraternity, fatigue, because it can sneak up on you unawares ... You might not realise you're tired until it's too late," Mr Locke said.
Drivers were given a hot drink, a sausage in bread and a fatigue information pack that contained a key ring and bottled water.
They were also surveyed on their understanding of fatigue and how their employers dealt with it.
Owens driver Kepa Kairau said he had his log book out ready to show police when he was stopped, but welcomed the snack and a break he was offered instead.
The operation was a combined effort between police, ACC, Land Transport New Zealand and industry union National Road Carriers.
Further operations are planned around the upper North Island early next year.
