Number of truck crashes recorded between July and September on the Hume Highway nearly as high as overall yearly figures
Ruza Zivkusic-Aftasi | October 8, 2012
The number of truck crashes recorded between July and September on the Hume Highway is nearly as high as the overall yearly figures, Victoria Police says.
There were 12 accidents recorded between Sydney and Melbourne compared to the average of 16 per year, with fatigue believed to be the key factor.
One driver was killed near Violet Town in Victoria last week after his truck hit a tree and burst into flames.
“Between January and June we didn’t have any heavy vehicle collisions but in July, August and September the number that we’ve had has brought us level with the same time last year,” Senior Sergeant Ralph Willingham says.
“The [work] diaries that we have been able to retrieve have not indicated anything particular out of the ordinary but it’s a little of a quandary as to what else it could be than fatigue related.”
Willingham has used the crashes to remind all parties in the supply chain to be aware of their responsibilities. He says drivers can expect a stronger police presence on the highway in the lead up to Christmas.
A VicRoads executive director, David Shelton, says all motorists need to share the road wisely.
“VicRoads have a truck rollover program which is a safety program aimed at truck drivers and everyone in the transport chain,” he adds.
“The program aims to raise awareness about truck rollovers, what causes them and how they can be prevented.”
