A new partnership has been formed to enhance heavy vehicle safety at level crossings.
Between 1 July 2014 and 31 December 2022 there were 39 lives lost and 49 serious injuries at Australia’s rail crossings.
As a result, the Australian Trucking Association (ATA) and the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) in a joint effort have issued a crucial safety notice to help truck drivers to remain vigilant at level crossings.
The National Level Crossing Safety Notice reminds heavy vehicle drivers of the potentially life-saving safety measures they must adhere to around rail lines.
It includes simple do’s and don’ts for drivers to remember, such as reducing speed and checking blind spots before crossing, adhering to any warning signs, boom gates and lights, and assessing the road condition.
ATA CEO, Mathew Munro, said the safety notice was a part of a shared commitment to reducing fatalities and injuries at the more than 20,000 level crossings intersecting with roads and pathways around the country.
“We’re putting out a unified reminder for truck drivers to prioritise not only their own safety, but the safety of their fellow road users and rail workers,” he said.
“There’s no room to take risks when it comes to trains.”
NHVR CEO, Sal Petroccitto, said level crossings presented unique challenges for heavy vehicles, meaning drivers needed to be aware of their surroundings and avoid any distraction when approaching rail lines.
“Trucks don’t have the same stopping time as lighter vehicles, so it’s critical all heavy vehicle drivers take extra caution around the tracks,” he said.
“Taking a risk at a level crossing is never worth it, and by following the guidelines in the safety alert, we can collectively reduce the likelihood of tragedy occurring and ensure all road users reach their destination safely.”
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