Describing a tractor trailer unit as dangerously defective, on Sunday Corman Park Police Service responded to a report from an off-duty RCMP member about a semi that appeared unfit for operation. Police say the vehicle was stopped on Highway 11 in the RM of Corman Park.

In a news release the Police Service says both side windows of the cab had been smashed out and covered over with duct tape, significantly obstructing the driver’s ability to see other road users and approaching hazards. The windshield was severely damaged, with multiple fractures and impact marks spreading across the driver’s field of view, and the primary exterior mirror was shattered and held in place with duct tape, preventing the driver from seeing properly to the rear of the unit and trailer.

The semi was immediately placed out of service and towed from the highway. A full Periodic Motor Vehicle Inspection (PMVI) was ordered before it may return to service, and the driver was issued charges under the Traffic Safety Act including operating a motor vehicle with an obstructed view; operating a commercial vehicle with known major defects under The Trip Inspection Regulations; and operating with an inadequate windshield and mirror contrary to vehicle equipment requirements.

Corman Park Police also forwarded information about the state of the vehicle and charges to the carrier because in Saskatchewan commercial carriers are required to maintain safety programs, perform trip inspections and make sure vehicles don’t operate with major defects.