Do you know the height of your truck and load every time you get behind the wheel? Do you plan your route appropriately for your vehicle height?
Queensland Rail is seeing too many trucks striking rail bridges and protection beams. In 2024, there were 398 strikes to either rail bridges (94) or rail bridge protection beams (304), an increase from 2023 when there were 363 collisions.
The new bridge strike prevention campaign – Don’t get your truck stuck! was launched at the 2025 Brisbane Truck Show. The campaign is in partnership with the Queensland Police Service (QPS) and the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR), with all three agencies working together and asking drivers to avoid all the cost, danger and embarrassment of bridge strikes.
Queensland Rail Senior Manager of Safety and Security Drew Brock said rail bridge strikes were a serious issue.
“Every time an over height vehicle hits a rail bridge, we stop trains to inspect it for damage – this means customers can’t get to their destinations on time and vital freight is delayed,” Brock said.
“With the potential of flying debris or in some cases dislodged machinery there’s also the enormous safety risk posed to drivers, other road users and nearby pedestrians following a bridge strike.
“What we’re seeing is that many drivers are simply not aware of their vehicle’s height, aren’t paying attention to signage, or are taking routes unsuitable for their loads.
“That’s why we’re working with NHVR and QPS in this joint action to get the message across loud and clear: know your truck, know your height and know your route.”
The messaging is further enhanced with ongoing education and enforcement at some of the most struck rail bridges and beams. Keep an eye out for the team and the variable messaging signs as you drive around Brisbane. Officers will have some of the campaign merchandise to share along with their trusty height measuring sticks.
Queensland Police Service Railway Squad Tactician David Wheatley said bridge strikes were a serious safety issues for all road users.
“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility, Queensland Police will be actively monitoring bridge strike hotspots and holding drivers accountable,” Wheatley said.
“We’re also having conversations with drivers about why they selected this particular route to try and understand what planning is being undertaken prior to these journeys.”
Here are some tips to keep everyone safe.
Know your truck and load height
• Check the maximum height of your vehicle and load before every journey.
• Check again after any changes to your load.
• Display the correct vehicle and load height in your cab at all times.
Plan your route appropriately
All of Queensland Rail’s low clearance rail bridges (under 5.4m) are fitted with height signage. It’s up to you to know your vehicle and load height and to stay clear. Routes should be planned in advance to avoid low bridges. It’s your responsibility to:
• Avoid taking unplanned shortcuts.
• Not rely on a satellite navigation designed for cars. Plan your route using tools like the NHVR’s Route Planner or other tailored tools.
• If there are diversions, check alternate routes to avoid low bridges.
The NHVR’s Jarrod Wilson echoed the importance of education and enforcement to tackle the growing issue.
“Road safety is always the number one priority of the NHVR, which is why we are proud to partner with Queensland Rail and the Queensland Police Service on this important operation,” Wilson said.
“Bridge strikes are not merely accidents – non-compliant vehicles pose a serious safety risk to other motorists, along with the potential damage to public infrastructure and major network disruptions.
“These incidents are also entirely preventable, and it is why at the NHVR our message to all heavy vehicle drivers and operators is simple – know your truck, know your load, and know your route.
“Remember to always measure the height of your load, use the NHVR’s Route Planner, and check your load at scheduled stops to ensure it hasn’t shifted.”
The consequences
Queensland Rail actively pursues drivers and their employers for the cost of repairs which would otherwise be covered by taxpayers. Businesses are further impacted by the cost of insurance and the loss of income while a vehicle is off the road. QPS may take enforcement action against those drivers responsible for damages to rail infrastructure, including a bridge, tunnel or overhead structure.
Did you know if you strike a rail bridge you can be fined? If the matter is taken to court, the fines can increase to over $25,000 plus 11 demerits from your licence. As a driver this could mean loss of your licence and employment.
For more resources, to request in cab height stickers, or to download the ToolBox Talks for your workplace visit qr.com.au/bridgesafety.