Collision between Tandem Tip Truck and the Indian Pacific Passenger Train, 4SA8, Virginia, South Australia, on 13 December 2007

Executive summary

At approximately 1417 on 13 December 2007 a tandem tip truck loaded with a 'bobcat' excavator drove into the side of the Indian Pacific passenger train (4SA8) at the passively controlled level crossing of Moloney Road near Virginia in SA. As a result of the collision, the truck driver was seriously injured. The locomotive drivers were shaken but not hurt. There were no injuries to passengers or the train's hospitality staff.

The investigation concluded that the accident occurred because the driver of the truck entered the level crossing while a train was on the crossing and that he did not come to a halt at the level crossing 'Stop' sign. It is likely that the truck driver was not expecting a train at the level crossing and accordingly did not stop.

Safety actions recommended as a result of the investigation include a review of the Australian Level Crossing Assessment Model (ALCAM) with respect to assessing the risks associated with level crossings having a history of incidents/accidents and measures to reduce the road/rail interface risk at the Moloney Road level crossing.

Rail Safety Recommendations [ RR20080026 ] [ RR20080027 ] [ RR20080028 ]