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Almost 600 defects found with Cootes fleet

NSW authorities have wrapped up a week-long audit of Cootes Transport following a fatal truck crash in Sydney.

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Source: AAP


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Almost 250 defect notices have been handed to Cootes Transport in NSW for flaws ranging from frayed seat belts to faulty brakes.

NSW authorities have conducted a sweeping review of the transport company's fleet after one of its vehicles was involved in a horrific crash on Sydney's Northern Beaches.

Last week a fuel tanker lost control on Mona Vale Rd, rolled and exploded, killing two motorists.

NSW Roads and Maritime Services have grounded 10 vehicles and issued the company with 244 defect notices.

Almost 300 vehicles were inspected and close to 600 defects were uncovered, Roads and Maritime Services director customer and compliance Peter Wells said.

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"Defects notices can cover any minor or major issue detected during an inspection," he said in a statement.

"The operation found 85 major and 140 minor defects ranging from frayed seat belts to inefficient brakes and steering box oil leaks."

Victorian authorities have also conducted a safety review of the Cootes fleet.

As of Thursday, 73 vehicles have been taken off road in Victoria.

NSW Traffic and Highway Patrol Acting Commander Acting Assistant Commissioner Stuart Smith said while the investigation into the Mona Vale crash was ongoing, every resource would be thrown into determining the circumstances.

"It is a priority for NSW Police to ensure the heavy-vehicle industry operates safely," he said.

"We will continue to work with other road-safety agencies to target drivers and operators who flout the law."


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