Following a number of serious incidents occurring in NSW on Bulli Pass and Mount Ousley, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is urging heavy vehicle drivers across the country to exercise extreme caution when travelling down steep descents.
Last year saw two fatal collisions involving heavy vehicles on the Bulli Pass. NHVR Director of Central Region Brett Patterson said, “Over the past few years we have seen many trucks lose control down these steep descents, leading to serious damage to vehicles and infrastructure, delays and serious road trauma.”
The NHVR is also aware of several dangerous near-misses where heavy vehicles have had to use safety ramps or arrestor beds to avoid an incident.
The NHVR reminds drivers to follow the steep descent warning signs and shift to a lower gear when beginning a descent, to ensure that they maintain a safe controlled speed and prevent excessive wear on brakes.
“Drivers shouldn’t over-rely on brakes as they can overheat – by selecting a low enough gear that they can descend without use of the service brake, the service brake can be used in an emergency without having the brake overheat” Mr. Patterson said.
Drivers should always plan their journey, taking descents, rest stops, driver skill and experience, and road sign advice into consideration. Brakes should be frequently inspected and maintained, and operators should ensure that their drivers are sufficiently informed and adequately trained on safe driving measures.