The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) has launched a new campaign aimed at tackling the large number of road and rail bridge strikes across Queensland – averaging more than one a day.
The “Truckload of trouble” campaign is aimed at increasing driver awareness about the consequences of bridge strikes to themselves and others, encouraging drivers to know their load and vehicle height and provide practical solutions to plan their route and avoid low clearance bridges.
There has been a consistently high rate of bridge strikes over the last two years, with an average of one bridge strike per day.
In the 2023/24 financial year, there were 369 rail bridge or protection beam strikes recorded with 360 the year before.
In 2023 alone, bridge strikes caused over 200 hours of rail delays.
The campaign is a joint initiative between TMR, Queensland Rail and the Queensland Trucking Association in a fresh plea for drivers to know their height and plan their journey.
The Palmwoods rail bridge is often hit.
Low clearance bridges are fitted with signage and many feature measures ranging from protection beams to height chimes.
Apart from causing serious risk to road users and delaying passenger trains, motorists who damage rail infrastructure can be fined from $1,290 and four demerit points, to a $12,904 penalty if the matter goes to court.
Queensland Rail actively pursues motorists for the cost of repairs which would otherwise be borne by taxpayers.
A driver who damages a bridge, tunnel or overhead structure may also be liable for other penalties such as contravening clearance signs ($645 fine and 4 demerit points) or $6452 if the matter goes to court, along with careless driving of a motor vehicle ($645 and 3 demerit points).
In the instance of a road bridge strike, it should be immediate reported to 13 90 40.
For a rail bridge strike, it should be reported to Queensland Rail using the telephone number on the identification plate fixed to the bridge or by calling Emergency Network Control on 1800 079 303.
Queensland Trucking Association CEO, Gary Mahon, said the “Truckload of Trouble campaign messaging is critical for all truck drivers delivering in SEQ”.
Mr Mahon said bridge strikes are avoidable.
“Trucking companies, truck rental companies and businesses using trucks to deliver goods have a responsibility to educate drivers.
“Awareness about truck and bridge heights should be included in pre-start check lists, toolbox talks and trip planning.
“Truck drivers who are newly licenced, new to driving or hiring a truck, must be provided with information on bridge and truck heights to avoid these preventable incidents.
“For professional truck drivers, a bridge strike on your record is a black mark against you for future job opportunities and there’s also embarrassment in having to tell your boss,” Mr Mahon said.
