Charges have been laid against a transport company and sub-contracted manager after a heavy vehicle transporting live chickens crashed at Remembrance Drive in Cardigan, Victoria, in February 2020.
Victoria Police Heavy Vehicle Unit conducted an extensive investigation into the crash, which led to the current category 1 and 2 charges under the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL). The charges refer to a breach of duty creating risk of serious injury, illness, or death.
NHVR Director of Prosecutions Belinda Hughes said the heavy vehicle driver, who had told his boss he needed to rest, was lucky to escape with his life.
“The company and manager are now being charged with the most serious offences under the HVNL for failing to fulfil their primary duty obligations, which put the driver and other road users at serious risk,” Belinda said.
The matter will next be heard on 20 May 2022 at The Melbourne Magistrates’ Court in Victoria.