Driver, Company Charged After Operating Trailer with Only 2 of 12 Wheels

Key Details Ottawa police stopped a truck-trailer combination on May 28, 2026, after officers noticed the trailer was missing most of its wheels. The trailer should have had 12 wheels but only had 2 remaining. Why It Matters A Ministry of Transportation inspection revealed critical safety failures: the trailer had no operational brakes, loose wheel fasteners on remaining wheels, and one fastener had sheared off during operation. Inspectors determined wheel separation was highly probable, creating serious injury or death risk to other motorists. What Happened The driver claimed the trailer was headed to a scrap yard in Embrun for disposal. However, Ottawa Police emphasized the vehicle should never have been on public roads in this condition. The trailer was towed away at the company's expense, and both driver and company face court charges. Takeaway Police reminded all commercial operators that proper pre-trip inspections are mandatory. Defects must be documented and addressed before any road operation. This incident serves as a stark reminder that unsafe equipment puts lives at risk and violates commercial vehicle regulations.