November 13, 2024

Carter Capner Law monitors accidents involving cars, motorcycles, trucks, busses, cyclists and trams throughout Australia to spotlight safety issues of concern to our clients and to demonstrate those situations in which they may have a right to an insurance or compensation recovery. We act for drivers, riders, passengers, pedestrians. Call today on 1300 529 529 or click here to reach Carter Capner Law. Click on Client Showcase to view our history of road accident compensation claims.

Incident Overview

A truck driver has been charged following a three-vehicle crash on the Bruce Highway near Gladstone, Queensland, that resulted in the deaths of a 13-year-old boy and a 40-year-old woman. The crash occurred late Tuesday night, November 12, 2024, and involved a semi-trailer truck and two utes.

Location and Time

The crash happened just after 11:00 pm on the Bruce Highway near the intersection of Raglan Station Road in Raglan, Queensland.

Vehicles Involved

Three vehicles were involved in the crash: a semi-trailer truck, a white Nissan Navara ute, and a Toyota Hilux ute.

Crash Description

The semi-trailer truck was traveling south on the Bruce Highway when it collided with the rear of the Nissan Navara, causing it to crash into the Toyota Hilux in front of it. The Navara had slowed down behind the Hilux due to a wide load ahead.

Injuries/Fatalities

Tragically, a 13-year-old boy and a 40-year-old woman traveling in the Nissan Navara died at the scene. The 42-year-old male driver and a 15-year-old passenger in the same vehicle were transported to Rockhampton Base Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The driver and passenger in the Toyota Hilux sustained minor injuries and were taken to Gladstone Hospital.

Emergency Response

Emergency services attended the scene, including police, paramedics, and possibly a rescue helicopter.

Investigation

The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances of the crash.

Charges Laid

The 30-year-old truck driver from Kingston has been charged with one count of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing death or grievous bodily harm. He is due to appear before Gladstone Magistrates Court on December 9.

Community Impact

This tragic incident has deeply saddened the local community and highlights the dangers on the Bruce Highway. The crash also resulted in the closure of the highway for a period of time, causing disruption to traffic.

Contributing Factors

While the investigation is ongoing, it appears that the truck driver’s failure to slow down for the vehicles in front of him was a major contributing factor to the crash. The presence of a wide load may have also played a role.