Trucks are a major part of Queensland roads, from logistics to road transport and freight.  The Queensland Government partnered with the Queensland Trucking Association is committed to improving the safety of the community as well has the trucking industry.  Operators of heavy vehicles have a legal responsibility to comply with Australian Road Rule 108.  This requires that heavy vehicle drivers must use suitable gears for braking without relying on the foot brake and especially for descending steep roads.

What is Road Rule 108?

Road rule 108 specifically aimed at all operators of trucks above 4.5 tonne GVM and enforces that a driver of a truck or bus must adhere to the ‘trucks & buses must use low gear’ sign on roads where this applies.  The rule is Australia wide and is designed to reduce the number of serious accidents on our roads.  Before the rule was implemented, drivers would descend large downhill roads too quickly, brakes applied during these descends would heat up the brakes and cause premature wear and dangerous fading.  This reduces the driver’s ability to slow the vehicle efficiently, there have been many cases where drivers lost control of the vehicle and caused serious accidents. Hence road rule 108 was established.

Travelling at low speed in a suitable gear will provide for a safe descend and the driver is more in control of the vehicle.  It is recommended to be cautious, never go over the limit and ensure safety remains the priority.  To prevent accidents, drivers must regularly complete safety assessments, use skill and experience to navigate safe entry to long descending slopes with consideration of the load being carried.

Partnership for Safety

The Queensland Government and QTA partnership is driving the safety of the trucking industry.  Truck drivers are reminded that heavy penalties apply for drivers who disobey road rule 108.  The law is put in place to protect the safety of the community and motorists sharing the roads.  Penalties of $330 fine and 3 demerit points apply for the failure to obey trucks and buses low gear sign.