NSW Galston Gorge Proves Problematic
Source: www.2gb.com
Truckies that are caught driving over-length vehicles through Galston Gorge face heavy fines and possible loss of their licence, NSW Authorities have warned.
A recent incident during which 3 over-length trucks were caught in quick succession driving though NSW’s Galston Gorge prompted the warning from authorities.
Authorities have taken aim at truck drivers who ignore over-length signs on Galston Gorge and warned that they risk losing their licences and their livelihoods after 3 trucks were caught in quick succession breaching length restrictions a few weeks ago.
The first incident happened around 10am when a truck and dog measuring a combined 15.2m was caught by cameras travelling on the gorge. This is double the permitted maximum length of 7.5m.
While officers were still investigating the truck, another truck, an over length concrete aggregator was seen struggling through the bends of the gorge.
RMS officers were still escorting the vehicle when they encountered a rigid truck travelling westbound onto the gorge.
Both vehicles came together on a hairpin bend around midday, causing delays in traffic as police had to stop traffic to allow the second vehicle to turn around.
The trucks were measured and found to be 9.5m and 11.1m respectively.
The 3 drivers were fined $2196 and 6 demerit points while NSW Police consider further penalties including registration or licence suspension.
NSW Police assistant commissioner John Hartley explained,
“Despite significant signage warnings, measuring bays either at side of the gorge, and camera systems, we are still seeing numerous truck drivers taking the risk on the gorge,”
“The length restriction is in place at this location for the safety of truck drivers and all other road users, as longer vehicles can easily become stuck, potentially causing a crash and almost definitely creating significant traffic delays.
“Not only is it selfish for any driver of an over-length vehicle to use this route, it is an offence.
“In addition to the financial penalty, the driver may also place his or her license, truck, trailer and livelihood in jeopardy.”
Paul Endycott, RMS general manager of compliance operations also weighed in on the issue. He said the number of over-length trucks still travelling through the gorge is “frustrating”.
He highlighted that drivers would have had to ignore 13 signs leading up to the approach of the gorge,
“There are 13 signs on the approaches to Galston Gorge and they are not there for decoration,” he says.
“Not only could these drivers create lengthy and unnecessary delays for other road users, they are putting their own safety at risk.”
There have been cameras put up by authorities at the gorge to record details of over-length trucks entering the gorge and RMS has warned of a zero tolerance approach towards perpetrators.
