Home
>
Newsroom
>
20 August 2008 - Investigation of collision between sewage truck and The Ghan
Media Release
2008/29
Investigation of collision between sewage truck and The Ghan
20 August 2008
The ATSB has found that a collision between The Ghan
passenger train and a loaded sewage truck occurred when the driver
of the truck drove into the path of the train at a private road
level crossing at 'Murrow Farm' near Two Wells in SA.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau has today released its
final investigation report into the collision which occurred on 6
August 2007 seriously injuring the truck driver. At the time of the
accident road traffic at the level crossing was controlled by
'Stop' signs.
The ATSB found that the truck driver did not stop and did not
see the train until he was on the level crossing. However,
vegetation adjacent to the crossing had grown to the point where
the truck driver could not see the approaching train even if he had
stopped as required. Had the vegetation been adequately maintained,
the truck driver would have been able to clearly see The
Ghan, stop and then proceed safely over the crossing when the
train had passed.
As a result of this investigation, the ATSB has identified
safety issues primarily related to maintenance practices for the
control of vegetation in the rail corridor which require action to
reduce the risk of future collisions at this and other level
crossings. Six safety recommendations have been issued. The ATSB
also acknowledges safety action already undertaken by the
Australian Rail Track Corporation in response to identified safety
issues. Copies of the report can be downloaded from the ATSB's
internet site at www.atsb.gov.au or obtained from the ATSB by
telephoning 1800 020 616.
Media Contact: 1800 020 616
Related documents