WA RED LIGHT and HVPL ANNOUNCEMENT

Jan 2024

      We have been advised  that  authorised pilots have never had the authority to drive a vehicle through a red light in the course of their duties. This has not changed under the Main Roads Heavy Vehicle Pilot Licence scheme. As a condition of the permit, the pilot is required to be in contact with the driver of the oversize vehicle  and if required, should request that the oversize vehicle be driven slowly or wait until the pilot vehicle is able to catch up. Allowing pilot vehicles to drive through a red light increases the safety risk for pilots and other road users. For known locations  on the planned  route where it is likely that an oversize vehicle and its pilot vehicle will not make it through a controlled intersection, an appropriate traffic escort plan should incorporate means to control or direct those relevant intersections. 

      Licences & Authorisation :-   This is an issue based on a misconception. The HVPL is not an authorisation to drive.  All pilots should  be aware that it is a requirement to carry your currrent MDL when undertaking the duties of a pilot and to produce it along with the HVPL when requested. The Gazettal process  has now changed and MRWA advised that previous gazettal of authorised name does not result in the continued authorisation when the HVPL licence expires.

      The key point here is that there is no maximum distance prescribed  between the escort and escorted load. The rear PV should always stop at red lights and the oversize load should pull over and wait if neccesary. All pilots should  be aware of this.