A loaded log truck was making a right hand turn off a four lane road at a light-controlled intersection. The truck was in the right hand lane and started its turn as the light turned green. The sweep of the load swung partially into the left lane as the turn progressed.
An overtaking log truck heading straight through the intersection in the left lane struck the sweep of the logs as it passed. A log hit the rear wrapper and back stake of the overtaking truck, tilting the load dangerously before the log snapped off under extreme pressure.
An eight foot piece of log with a 4 1/2” top ended up dropping onto the roadway. The driver of the overtaking truck didn’t stop. The driver of the truck making the right turn was unaware of the contact.
• Plan your route to minimize potential conflicts. In this case there was a safer intersection at the junction of Highways 97 and 33 with a dedicated curved right turn lane and yield sign.
• If it is necessary to make a right turn at an intersection on a four lane road, set yourself up as you approach the intersection to minimize the potential for a vehicle to pass on the right or left and commence your turn when it is safe to proceed.
• Be aware of the potential for sweep to enter your lane when overtaking a turning log truck making a sharp turn. Be courteous and wait for the driver ahead to complete his manoeuver.
For more information contact: Tom Cridland, Cridland Logging Ltd. (250) 212-7018
| File attachments |
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| Serious Incident: Log truck struck by the sweep of another log truck making a right turn.pdf |
