In the past 12 months, toll road operator Transurban says it’s responded to 1500 lost load incidents across its roads and tunnels in Queensland.
That averages out to over four incidents a day, the majority happening on the Gateway and Logan motorways.
“No one expects a load they’re carrying to come loose, but it’s been happening more and more on our Queensland roads, creating safety hazards and increased congestion,” Transurban said in a media release.
“Any debris on a high-speed road can be a hazard to motorists and can lead to traffic delays as we often need to close lanes to clear the road.
“Debris can also cause secondary incidents as motorists change lanes quickly or swerve to avoid a collision.”
According to Transurban general manager assets, Angelo Lambrinos, traffic control room operators are seeing loads come loose from vehicles every day as tradies, truck drivers and other motorists transport unsecured items.
He warns that those who lose their load should never try to retrieve it from the motorway. “We know it can be tempting,” he said, “But this only puts your life and the lives of other drivers in more danger. Please, leave it to the experts.”
To report debris sightings to Transurban’s 24/7 control room call13 33 31, taking note of the location and direction of traffic – using your phone safely and only in accordance with the law.