Checking the load can be a hazardous occupation.
Stopping to check the load is something that grey nomads commonly do as they travel for long periods of time, often over bumpy roads, but it is a safety precaution that can present its own dangers.
A man in his thirties is in critical condition in Brisbane’s Princess Alexandra Hospital today after being struck by a passing car as he stopped to inspect his roof rack cargo,
Police say the man was travelling northbound on the Pacific Motorway at Springwood south of Brisbane last night when he stopped on the shoulder to check his load.
Whist inspecting the cargo he has been struck by a passing vehicle.
The driver of the other vehicle stopped and has been interviewed by police.
Investigations are continuing.
* Do you often stop to check your load? What precautions do you take when you do so? Have you seen people stopping to check loads at inappropriate places?
I stop regularly and check straps and doors etc. I only ever do it at rest stops, unless I think it is an emergency. Even then I will try to get somewhere well off the road if possible. You can’t always chose where you have to stop. I hope this man recovers fully.
I always ensure that ropes or straps are tied off or tensioned on the left hand side of the vehicle therefore i am never exposed directly to passing traffic.
Gosh, hope he is alright. BUT, find an exit from the motorway, they are very frequent on the Pacific Motorway, pull over away from traffic travelling at 110 klms. per hour.