Boom gate collisions to hit back pockets

The Newman Government will step up efforts to target careless drivers who damage level crossing infrastructure in South East Queensland, and recover hundreds of thousands of dollars in repair costs.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said Queensland Rail will pursue impatient or inattentive drivers if they crash into boom gates.

“Last Thursday trains on the Caboolture and Sunshine Coast lines were delayed for almost an hour after a truck struck boom gates at Newman Rd, Geebung just after 8am,” Mr Emerson said.

“Other level crossing strikes this month have occurred in Helidon, Bowen and Barcaldine.

“There is the obvious danger of ignoring lowered boom gates but a collision with a boom gate also impacts on the lives of all of those travelling with us.

“It means we have to stop trains for the safety of our customers and road users, and services can only resume when police are on the scene and able to direct traffic safely.

“The government and Brisbane City Council are currently delivering an election commitment to build flyovers at Telegraph Rd, Bracken Ridge which had the most strikes last year and Newman Rd, Geebung which had a high number of near pedestrian misses.”

In the 2011/12 financial year, Queensland Rail recorded 80 incidents where boom gates were struck by vehicles on the city network.

Queensland Rail has so far had 38 successful claims, recovering more than $200,000 since July 2010 but a further 63 claims will now be pursued.

According to Queensland Rail Acting Chief Executive Officer Jim Benstead, the repair bill for damage to boom gates, signalling equipment and fencing can often exceed $10,000.

“Queensland Rail is fed up with the costly damage to its property and has pursued drivers for the repair costs of infrastructure,” Mr Benstead said.

“Motorists have been forced to pay damage bills that run into the thousands of dollars but in reality it could have been much worse – they could have been hit by a train.

“We ask that people obey the warning signs and signals and stop – this could save them not only money but also their life.”

Top 10 Boom gate Collisions in 2011/2012 – City network

[ENDS] 23 August 2012

Media Contacts: Stephanie Shield 0418 186 625