Richmond city council has banned the use of engine brakes on city roads.
After recent complaints to the city, especially from the Hamilton area, staff recommended city council pass a bylaw that would stop truck drivers from using them in Richmond because of the “loud and unnecessary noise” they make.
Engine brakes are used to save the main braking system for emergency stopping, according to ICBC, and are often used on long downhills to avoid using the main brakes.
But ICBC also states, according to information in a report to council, well-engineered trucks with engine brakes shouldn’t be noisy.
The bylaw comes with a $250 fine for using engine brakes in Richmond, consistent with fines in Vancouver, if the bylaw is passed.
The bylaw was passed by council on June 22.
