Transpacific grounds fleet after Adelaide double fatality

Date: 20.08.2014

Another national company takes all trucks from the road after tragedy strikes

Transpacific grounds fleet after Adelaide double fatality

Transpacific has taken its whole fleet in for checks

In the second such action this month, waste services firm Transpacific has grounded its entire fleet following a multiple fatality.

Transpacific’s move comes after one of its trucks lost control in Adelaide on Monday, killing two people and injuring the driver badly, and two weeks after BP did the same when a dog trailer became unhitched.

"In the last 24 hours, we have been working closely with the South Australian Police and authorities to assist in their investigations," Transpacific CEO Robert Boucher says.

"We have provided the South Australian Police with access to our Wingfield fleet and workshop, where they have conducted an assessment of our trucks and maintenance records.

"We have taken the decision this evening to ground our entire fleet in order to conduct our own internal investigation and satisfy ourselves, the Police and regulators of the roadworthiness of our fleet and the adequacy of our maintenance program.

"This is not a decision we have taken lightly, however we believe it is the right thing to do given the serious nature of Monday’s accident.

"The driver had undergone thorough safety training prior to being cleared to drive our truck. He remains in hospital in a critical condition.

"Again, we reiterate that our thoughts and sincere condolences are with the family and friends of the deceased."

"Transpacific will continue to gather evidence and cooperate with the Police and regulators."

SA Police say the truck collided with three stationary cars at the intersection of Glen Osmond Road and Cross Road.

"Our investigation into this crash is in its early stages," the acting officer in charge of Traffic Support Branch, Inspector Steve Kameniar, says.

"Major Crash investigators are taking statements from those who witnessed the crash and working with a range of agencies.

"As part of that inquiry we have visited the trucking company and inspected its vehicles.

"Police would particularly like to speak to any witnesses who may have seen the truck anywhere along the downtrack of the South Eastern Freeway including from before the tunnels.

"At this time we would appeal for anyone with information which may be relevant to this inquiry to come forward – every detail will assist in building an accurate picture of what took place and why."