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Reckless moves a regular hazard

Tayler NealeAlbany Advertiser

Dash camera footage from a Fletchers International truck showing a near head-on collision as a car attempts a dangerous overtake on Albany Highway is a weekly occurrence, according to driver Murray York.

Mr York was driving through North Bannister recently and had slowed down to just below the speed limit when he realised what was happening.

“I managed to look in the mirror and saw a car overtaking where it shouldn’t be, right across the two solid lines,” he said

“I took evasive action to try and avoid a pretty serious collision with the oncoming car.

“Luckily I got off the road with my wheels in the gravel trying to hold it there and then the other car has stopped and (braked) too, otherwise it would have been a head-on.”

Mr York said this sort of reckless driving was a regular part of his journey between Narrikup and Fremantle Port.

“That happens weekly, it happens all the time,” he said

“People just have to be more patient, it’s only a few kilometres you have to wait until a passing lane in this instance.”

The footage has been passed on to police, who are investigating the matter.

Fletchers International WA general manager Greg Cross said drivers needed to show more patience when dealing with heavy haulage trucks.

“The consequences are permanent — a lot of the youth need to realise that these cars that are out there are jeopardising other people’s lives,” he said.

“These cars are like weapons and people have to treat them accordingly.

“It’s up to the general public to be patient and be responsible.”

Mr Cross said the bad reputation bestowed on truck drivers lacked credibility and he was hopeful the footage would deter drivers from making reckless decisions.

“Truck drivers today are getting a bad name and they cop a fair bit of flak, but realistically the majority of the truck drivers out there are very responsible,” he said.

“This in-cab vision just shows the stupidity from other drivers on the roads.

“It might make these idiots think twice because they’re going to be on video and get reported.”

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