In its latest media advice issued today about the Warrego Highway bridge strike, Queensland Police has revealed that initial investigations indicate the truck failed to follow the pilot and escorting vehicles onto the Mount Crosby Road offramp.
The incident occurred at 1.34am on Friday May 16 at North Tivoli, when an oversize over mass (OSOM) vehicle travelling in the westbound lanes struck the overpass and became wedged beneath.
According to Queensland Police, the driver of the truck, a man in his 50s, was transported to Ipswich Hospital for further assessment.
“The truck has continued westbound on the Warrego Highway and struck the bridge,” said Queensland Police.
“Motorists are urged to avoid the area and expect lengthy delays. Investigations are ongoing. There is no further information at this time.”
Transport and Main Roads (TMR) has remained at the scene, assessing damage to the overpass.
“The Mt Crosby Road overpass of the Warrego Highway at Tivoli was damaged this morning when a vehicle transporting a wind turbine part struck the bridge,” a TMR spokesperson said.
“Crews have mobilised and are on site to undertake structural assessments to determine when the load can be extracted and the road reopened.
TMR says the Mt Crosby Road overpass is currently closed in both directions and the westbound lanes of the Warrego Highway are closed at the location, with diversions in place via the on/off ramps.
Long delays are expected and road users are encouraged to find an alternate route.
“The westbound lanes of the Warrego Highway and the Mt Crosby Road overpass will only be re-opened to traffic when it is safe to do so,” the TMR spokesperson said.
As the load was being carried under permit, TMR says it is currently reviewing the details of the permit.
For the most update traffic reports, check the QLDTraffic website.
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