The driver of a vehicle towing a trailer with “major defects which could cause serious injuries” had both vehicle and trailer seized – with a court prosecution to follow, according to An Garda Síochána.

The driver was stopped over the weekend by Gardaí based in Co. Mayo, the law enforcement authority noted.

A number of serious issues were identified with the trailer in question, which was deemed to be a road hazard.

Taking to social media yesterday morning (Sunday, February 7), the An Garda Síochána Twitter page said:

“Mayo Roads Policing Unit stopped this vehicle with trailer and found major defects which could cause serious injuries. No floor; no braking system; no lights; [two] out of [three] tyres ripped; jockey wheel held up by rope.

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“Vehicle and trailer seized and detained. Prosecution to follow,” the tweet added.

RSA stance

According to the Road Safety Authority (RSA), it is the driver’s responsibility to ensure a trailer is roadworthy:

If you’re towing a trailer, it is your responsibility as the driver to ensure that both the towing vehicle and trailer are safe and mechanically sound, fit for purpose, and legally compliant with all relevant Road Traffic legislation.

This, the RSA notes, includes basics such as ensuring that: “tyres have adequate tread depth and are free from defects; lights and brakes are working; and the hitch is in good condition”.