Four vehicles banned from use following tire inspections at Finnsnes traffic station in Norway

On Wednesday, 36 vehicles were inspected at the Finnsnes traffic station, including 32 heavy-duty vehicles. The Norwegian Public Roads Administration focused primarily on the winter equipment of these vehicles, specifically the condition of tires and chains.

The inspection resulted in four prohibitions on use, one vehicle being decommissioned, two vehicles noted for written deficiencies, and one fine for inadequate tire or chain equipment. The most serious case involved a truck with three tires below the legal tread depth of five millimeters, with measurements down to 2.3 millimeters.

“This is far below the required standards,” stated Roger Furumo, head of outdoor controls in Northern Norway. “Considering the current driving conditions, these tires are not suitable for road use.”

The truck received a driving ban, and the driver was fined 6,000 kroner. Furumo emphasized the importance of winter tires for heavy vehicles under the prevailing weather conditions. He noted that the Public Roads Administration is prioritizing extra inspections on days with adverse weather and in vulnerable areas.

“Snowfall and fluctuating temperatures, from mild weather to frost, can create icy patches on the road. This leads to challenging driving conditions, and it is essential to have good tires,” he explained.

The inspection in Finnsnes also uncovered runoff from fish transport, leading to three additional driving bans. Furumo warned that runoff can create slippery conditions on the roads and poses a traffic hazard for other road users. Furthermore, it contaminates facilities frequented by the public, such as gas stations and parking lots.