They’re long, they’re wide, they’re high, and they’re fast … and, if you’re not extremely careful when you mix with them, some dangerous situations can arise.
Throughout country Australia and on the fringe of metropolitan areas, huge semi-trailers and road trains are being seen more and more. With high fuel prices and the need to move large loads fast, these giants with 2, 3 and 4 trailers (also known as ‘dogs’) connected to the prime mover, are quick and efficient and have a big job to do.
Extensively used in the mining industry to transport ore, gas, equipment and fuel, and in rural areas for the movement of large quantities of stock, produce and all sorts of goods, these huge giants on wheels must be treated with caution and respect whenever they are encountered.
Some of these big rigs measure over 50 metres in length, can vary in over-width loads from 2.5 metres wide and upwards, weigh well over 100 tonnes, and are capable of high speeds in flat open countryside. These days there are strict regulations governing speeds, travel permits and the necessity for escort vehicles accompanying unusually high and wide loads, but most road trains we seem to encounter are travelling at up to 90 or 100 kmh on the open road. At these speeds a road train can be quite a ‘daunting’ sight – perhaps even verging on ‘frightening’ when they’re bearing down on you – either from in front or behind!
Full article in January’16 issue of On The Road magazine.