Queensland Rail is pleading with drivers to know the height and load of their vehicles after a bridge strike at Corinda, which resulted in a truck tipping over and narrowly missing a passing car.
The incident occurred at Oxley Road, Corinda approximately 12:50pm Tuesday, 16 October.
The bridge impacted is on the Tennyson line, which means passenger trains have experienced only minor impacts.
However, several freight trains were delayed as a result.
Queensland Rail Head of South East Queensland Neil Backer said bridge strikes are extremely dangerous for the driver of the over-height vehicle, other road users, train drivers and the passengers on the train.
“Bridge strikes are also very disruptive. When there’s a bridge strike, rail traffic is halted, and our teams carefully inspect it to ensure it’s safe for trains to operate,” he said.
“We’re pleading with drivers of large vehicles, like trucks, caravans or loaded trailers, to plan their route, obey the road signs and signals and know their height.
“Every strike has the potential to cause harm and they are completely avoidable if drivers pay attention and plan their route.”
In the 2023/24 financial year, there were 369 rail bridge or protection beam strikes recorded with 360 the year before.
Oxley Road, Corinda was in the top five most struck in the 2023/24 financial year.
Low clearance bridges are fitted with signage and many feature measures ranging from protection beams to height chimes.
Motorists who damage rail infrastructure can be fined from $1,290 and four demerit points, to a $12,904 penalty if the matter goes to court.
A driver who damages a bridge, tunnel or overhead structure may also be liable for other penalties such as contravening clearance signs ($645 fine and 4 demerit points) or $6452 if the matter goes to court, along with careless driving of a motor vehicle ($645 and 3 demerit points).
In the instance of a road bridge strike, it should be immediate reported to 13 90 40. For a rail bridge strike, it should be reported 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.
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