Drivers facing fines for ignoring oversized load warnings, reader Christine writes
Police escorts, pilot drivers and truck drivers are alarmed at the number of drivers failing to give way to over-dimension loads.
Failing to comply with police escort directions, when confronted by an oversize load, is an offence which can incur considerable fines.
Truck drivers and other motorists who ignore police and escort instructions place themselves and others at risk of a tragic incident. Fortunately it is the minority of truck drivers travelling in the opposite direction toward the oversize load, which are causing the concern. Generally most motorists are very considerate and comply with instructions, to ensure the safe passage of the convoy.
Pilot vehicle drivers warn traffic of the approaching oversize load and do all they can to ensure the road ahead is clear to make a safe way for the large load. They also do all they can to convince the road train drivers and other motorists to slow down and move over, to ensure the safety of all vehicles in the vicinity of the movement.
There are many movements every week out of Port Adelaide to Silverton wind farm. As many as six long, large loads travel the Horrocks and Barrier Highways every day.
Ignoring the pilot driver’s warning, and failing to comply with police instructions, is an offence and can incur a fine of more than $600.
The South Australian and New South Wales police officers escorting these convoys say they will take action and impose infringement notices when these incidents occur.
There are hundreds of oversize movements all across Australia every day. These loads can vary from 3.5 metres to more than eight metres. The loads can be wide, high, long and heavy. Everyone involved in the moves have every intention of safely returning home to their families.
Pilot drivers say it’s disappointing when they are asked by truck drivers about the size of the load. It means their radio has been turned down and they haven’t heard any of the calls by the approaching convoy.
Using the UHF radio when in the vicinity of oversize loads, can help the drivers determine the location and dimension of the approaching load. The drivers need to take full responsibility for their actions, including giving way to oversize loads.
– Christine Thiel