BOLIVAR, SOUTH AUSTRALIA: A truck driver has been reported by police after two massive 15-tonne concrete slabs fell from his truck onto the North-South Motorway near Bolivar in Adelaide’s northern suburbs, triggering a multi-vehicle crash that injured three people and caused major traffic disruption.
Where Did the Crash Happen?
The incident occurred on the southbound lanes of the North-South Motorway near Bolivar, north of Adelaide, at approximately 10:30 a.m. on Friday, July 10, according to South Australia Police.The motorway is one of Adelaide’s busiest transport corridors, and the crash caused significant disruption while emergency crews cleared the scene.
How Did the Accident Happen?
Police said several vehicles were merging into the southbound lanes in front of a truck transporting large precast concrete slabs when the load shifted.
The truck lost two 15-tonne concrete segments, which crashed onto the roadway before slamming into three vehicles that were parked on the road shoulder.
At the time of the crash, two pedestrians were standing beside one of the broken-down vehicles.
The impact caused the parked vehicles to strike the pedestrians.
Casualties and Injuries
Three people were injured in the incident.
- One pedestrian was taken to hospital by ambulance with a suspected broken arm.
- Two other people suffered minor injuries and were treated at the scene.
No fatalities were reported.
What Police Said
South Australia Police reported the 38-year-old truck driver from Para Hills West for multiple alleged offences following an investigation.
According to police, the driver has been reported for:
- Causing harm by dangerous driving
- Using a mobile phone while driving
- Failing to wear a seatbelt
- A severe load restraint breach involving the concrete slabs
Authorities immediately suspended the man’s licence for 12 months, and he will be summoned to appear in court at a later date.
Police allege the improperly secured load contributed to the incident.
Traffic Impact
The crash led to significant traffic delays on the southbound North-South Motorway as emergency services, police and recovery crews worked to remove the enormous concrete slabs and damaged vehicles from the roadway.
Motorists experienced congestion while sections of the motorway were cleared and made safe.
