The loading legs of the trailer sunk about 30 centimetres into the road surface yesterday, but all was saved by a heavy crane. PICTURES: JEREMY BANNISTER
HOW often do trucks find themselves sinking in the road?
Quite often, apparently.
Crane operators were called to an incident in Wendouree yesterday morning, when a semi-trailer began sinking into the ground at the side of the road.
One of the loading legs of the trailer had sunk about 30 centimetres into the ground on Dowling Street, near the Minderdome, causing a severe tilt for the trailer laden with wire.
Barry James crane operator Gary Madden said it was quite common that trailers had to be pulled out of the ground after sinking.
He said the cranes could lift trucks that weighed up to 23 tonnes. The truck yesterday weighed about 15 tonnes.
Areas near Sutton Street and Latrobe Street were the most common for such incidents, according to Mr Madden.
“It probably happens about twice a week; it’s fairly regular,” he said.
“The driver said he had parked there about 30 times and nothing had ever happened.
“I think maybe using a plank of wood is the best way to prevent it.”
The truck was pulled free and reloaded on the truck within about 30 minutes of the crane arriving.