The Traffic Division’s Heavy Vehicle Unit pulled 12 passenger buses off the road Monday morning near Har Tov outside Beit Shemesh after finding safety violations that could have endangered passengers. The operation is part of heightened enforcement during the summer vacation period, which sees heavy traffic and more vehicles on the roads.
1+During inspections, six buses were grounded after officers found serious mechanical defects. In other buses, police found various violations including licensing problems, tachograph defects, and in one case a driver using a cell phone while driving.
1+Police emphasized that public transportation safety is a shared responsibility of bus companies and drivers. “A bus that isn’t roadworthy or a driver who doesn’t follow the law can turn a routine trip into a disaster,” police said. The Traffic Division will continue aggressive enforcement to ensure every passenger reaches their destination safely and prevent accidents that could cost lives.