Members of the NHVR have partnered with Queensland Rail and the Queensland Police Service to enact an on the ground targeted blitz at known bridge strike hotspots across southeast Queensland.
Officers will be on the ground at Wynnum, Yeronga, Corinda, Chelmer, Dutton Part and Rocklea to conduct enforcement and education action at hotspots in the region across November and December.
There have been 386 strikes to rail bridges and protection beams in the region over the past 12 months, with fines ranging from $1290 and four demerit points to $12,904 dollars for drivers who damage rail infrastructure.
Queensland Rail Senior Manager of Security and Emergency Preparedness Travis Cooper says the goal is to minimise bridge strike incidents before a serious injury or fatality occurs.
“We’ve seen 101 bridges and 285 protection beams struck by over height vehicles between October this year and last, and while, thankfully, no one has been seriously injured – every strike has that potential,” Cooper says.
“Just last month we saw a car narrowly miss being crushed after a truck got wedged at Corinda – next time maybe we won’t be so lucky.
“We’re trying to stop these incidents happening at the source – asking drivers to know their vehicle and load height before they find themselves injured, red-faced and wedged under a bridge.
“We’ve put high visibility message boards in place, our reinvigorated social media campaign ‘Truckload of Trouble’ is in market, and now we’re at some of the top strike locations.
“We’re not mincing our words. Drivers, know your height, plan your route and obey signs and rules.”
The Truckload of Trouble campaign was initially launched in September this year as part of a joint venture between the Queensland Trucking Association, Department of Transport and Main Roads and Queensland Rail.
Over 200 hours of rail delays were caused by bridge strikes in 2023 alone, with Queensland Rail actively pursuing motorists for the cost of repairs from the damage caused in addition to the fines handed out.
NHVR Operations Manager South Northern Region Jarrod Wilson says bridge strike incidents are easily avoidable if you plan your route properly.
“These incidents not only pose a serious and potentially deadly risk to the driver and other motorists but can also cause costly damage to important infrastructure and create significant headaches for commuters and travellers,” Wilson says.
“Fortunately, these incidents are entirely avoidable by accurately measuring your load before you get behind the wheel and thoroughly planning your route using the NHVR’s National Network Map.
“Safety is the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator’s top priority, which is why we are pleased to be working alongside Queensland Rail and the Queensland Police Service in a bid to reduce the number of avoidable bridge strikes across the state’s southeast.
“Our message is clear and simple. Know your truck, know your height, and know your route.”
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