Over-height truck causes lengthy delays after Brisbane CBD bridge strike

The latest in a string of bridge strikes by over-height trucks occurred yesterday (April 15) in Brisbane’s CBD, resulting in three lanes being closed and extensive traffic delays.

Just after 11am, a truck carrying containers struck a protection beam at the 4.4m low clearance Countess Street rail bridge near Roma Street station.

Thanks to the protection beam being in place, there were no impacts to rail services; however motorists faced heavy delays until late in the afternoon, with police keeping roadblocks in place until 6.30pm.

The incident comes as Queensland Rail reveals that bridge strikes within the state are causing up to 200 hours in delays a year for road users.

Queensland Rail head of SEQ, Neil Backer, commented, “Yesterday’s incident serves as a timely reminder for drivers of large vehicles, like trucks, caravans or loaded trailers, to plan their route, obey the road signs and signals and know the height of their vehicle.”

A total of 42 bridge impact detection systems have now been installed across the South East Queensland network, with sensors and CCTV cameras that automatically detect incidents and alert Queensland Rail to ensure a fast response, including remote inspections.

“Last year, bridge strikes caused almost 200 hours in delays and endless frustration for customers across South East Queensland,” Backer said.

Queensland Rail said that apart from causing serious risk to road users and delaying passenger trains, motorists who damage rail infrastructure can be fined up to $1238 and four demerit points and, if the matter goes to court, the maximum penalty for causing damage to rail infrastructure is 80 penalty units (approximately $12,384).

Drivers who are involved in, or witness a bridge strike, should immediately report it 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.