16 Oct 2015: Call for government action on bridge strikes

[ozbob]

Media release 16th October 2015

Call for government action on bridge strikes

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers has called for action to address bridge strikes.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"More bridge strikes again this week. Aside from the disruption to the transport network there is a very serious risk of a disaster."

"Clearly, the present system of drivers theoretically knowing the travelling height and width of their vehicle before they start a journey is not working. Warning signs are ignored. Protective beams are driven into, as well as bridges.

"It is a fact of life that most male truck drivers know their penis size, but not the height of their truck.  We want the state government and the RACQ to join forces and finance a public education campaign, aimed at truck drivers, with this simple message: 'How Big Is Your Rig?'

"Establishing a link between the size of the male appendage and the irresponsible behaviour of drivers is not new and worked for the old RTA in New South Wales –



"The proposed 'How Big Is Your Rig?' advertisement is just one aspect of a three-pronged campaign that Rail Back On Track advocates.  We also want the Department of Transport and Main Roads personnel to visit trucking companies to ensure they have operational and procedural measures in place whereby truck drivers sign a form stating the height and width of the truck they are about to drive, including load dimensions.  The same information should be displayed in the cabin of trucks over a certain size.  This is not onerous in our view and wouldn't affect many smaller transport vehicles – courier vans, for instance.

"Finally, if that measure doesn't work, the State Government needs to look at increasing fines and penalties - including automatic licence suspensions.  The onus is on the driver to know the size of the vehicle he is operating so he can make appropriate decisions about potential obstacles along his chosen route.

"A 'How Big Is Your Rig?' advertising campaign would remind drivers not to be a tool about this important public safety issue."

Reference:

1. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10484.msg161891#msg161891

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

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