The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has urged all heavy vehicles drivers to remember to take extra care when travelling near or across rail lines during this year's Rail Safety Week (5 - 11 August).
The annual community awareness week is an initiative of the TrackSAFE Foundation, with the goal of promoting safe practices on and around the rail network.
With train collisions involving heavy vehicles at an increased risk of resulting in catastrophic outcomes, the NHVR believes the heavy vehicle industry plays a crucial role in reducing such incidents.
Sadly, over the past two years there has been at least nine collisions between a heavy vehicle and a train - some of which resulted in multiple fatalities - including at least two crashes this year, and a further 13 near misses.
NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto OAM said heavy vehicle drivers should always be aware of their surroundings and avoid becoming complacent, even when travelling on a road they regularly frequent.
"While we know the vast majority of our truck drivers do the right thing and are safe on our roads, unfortunately heavy vehicles are over-represented compared with light vehicles when it comes to collisions with trains," Mr Petroccitto said.
"It is why Rail Safety Week is the perfect time to remind drivers to take extra caution when travelling near or across rail lines.
"We know a collision between a heavy vehicle and a train is twice as likely to have catastrophic outcomes, including fatalities, for both the heavy vehicle driver and any occupants of the train.
"Always slow down when approaching a crossing, check your blind spots, never cross a railway line unless sure there is enough space for your vehicle on the other side, and turn your radio down when approaching a level crossing to ensure you can hear any warnings."
With more than 23,000 level crossings across the country, each year collisions and near-misses have a profound impact on road and rail drivers, first-responders and the wider communities.
A study released by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau earlier this year found there had been 49 level crossing collisions involving heavy vehicles between July 2014 and August 2022.
This included at least 12 crashes where the heavy vehicle driver had regularly used the crossing prior to the incident, and at least 14 where obstructions such as sun glare, poor cabin design or vegetation were identified.
"It is important drivers are taking into account the weather conditions and any other situational conditions which can make it more difficult to see an oncoming train," Mr Petroccitto said.
"It may seem simple, but everyone has a role to play to when it comes to eliminating these avoidable and potentially devastating collisions."
In March, the NHVR participated in the National Level Crossing Safety Roundtable along with other key stakeholders in a bid to address the major safety challenges facing Australia's rail network.
Mr Petroccitto said the NHVR was committed to the common goal of safer level crossings for all road and rail users, and would continue to work with the National Level Crossing Safety Committee on proposed actions to boost safety.
