FREDERICTON (GNB) - The trucking industry will be able to continue using four-axle semi-trailers, which are not equipped with a self-steer axle, for another five years.
Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Claude Williams said current regulations call for use of these semi-trailers to be discontinued on Dec. 31, 2014. This deadline will now be extended to May 31, 2020.
“We received feedback from the trucking industry on this issue,” Williams said. “Due to the ongoing challenges to the industry and the significant cost to convert existing trailers to meet this year’s deadline, truckers have more time to make the required changes. The extension will allow them to get more use out of their existing trailer fleet as they prepare to upgrade their equipment with self-steer axles. This should help to reduce the burden on the trucking industry in the long term.”
After 2014, a special permit will be required to continue operating a truck tractor and quadrem axle semi-trailer without a self-steer axle. Permits will only be available for trailers with a model year of 2014 or earlier.
Truckers wishing to operate these trailers after Dec. 31 will need to contact the permit office at 506-453-2982 or by email at [email protected]
Once implemented in 2020, the regulation for self-steer axles will help to improve safety and efficiency on New Brunswick highways.
18-07-14