Truck hits trainby Rachael Kimola - Story: 34297Oct 7, 2007 / 12:52 pmIt could have been tragic. A group of tourists got more than they expected when the train they were riding in collided with a truck in Falkland. Just after 3 p.m. Saturday, the Kamloops Heritage Railway Steam Train was hit by a truck as it crossed in front of the train.Constable Paul Hooysma says there were about 170 people on the train, but none of them were injured. "The driver of the truck suffered minor bruises and cuts. It all could have been much worse," says Hooysma. He says the truck driver didn't see the train as he crossed the private railway crossing. "The crossing is at a corner and doesnt have signal lights. The train was unable to stop in time to avoid a collision." Hooysma says the KHRS is mainly used as tourist attraction. "Its a beautiful old steam train and it does daily trips from Kamloops to Armstrong. Its very popular with tourists." Its not known if charges will be brought against the driver. Hooysma says speeding and alcohol are not considered factors.Photo by Simon Farrow
Fortunately there were no serious injuries, or deaths involved, this is exactly the kind of thing that can effect all steam excursions, and run their liability insurance to point of not being affordable enough to make the excursions possible.
Doug
May your flanges always stay BETWEEN the rails
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