Trucks are major causes of accidents in the GCC.
The commercial vehicles industry and truck operators need to take training and equipment seriously if it is going to tackle road safety, according to a roundtable gathered for last week’s Automechanika Dealer Network.
Organised by EPOC Messe Frankfurt, the Automechanika Dealer Network is a biannual event intended to bring together the leaders of the automobile aftermarket sector, manufacturers, suppliers, dealers, service providers and other stakeholders. Among those attending were representatives from leading automotive aftermarket majors with a presence in Dubai, such as OWS Auto, Mobis, Global Autoparts, Al Habtoor, Genavco, Al Furat General Trading.
“There is a need to build stronger awareness campaigns on many areas of truck safety for the roads,” said Ioannis Vrantzoglou, managing director, Schaeffler Middle East. “This should include educating truck drivers and operators on safe transport practices as well as better interaction between fleet operators and local authorities on optimum safety measures.”
Hans van der Spek, business manager at Intertruck said that safety in commercial vehicles is an ongoing discussion and there is a need for further awareness in this area.
“Safety in trucks is particularly topical after the recent spate of terrible accidents around the region,” he said. “Future accidents can be prevented with the right measures in place and by ensuring the correct equipment is being used and serviced on a regular basis.”