Truck leaves number plate on train

A truck clipped a train at a level crossing in Balclutha yesterday leaving a number plate to trace the driver.

The accident happened about midday yesterday train operators Toll Rail spokeswoman Sue Foley said.

The train driver had not noticed anything but when drivers swapped at Waipahi shortly afterwards, the new driver saw the number plate wedged against the rear locomotive's fuel tank.

Ms Foley said the train had not sustained any damage but believed the truck had.

Invercargill police had been notified.

"Obviously the first train driver was quite shocked as he was unaware of any incident occurring but a quick phone call to the police who tracked down the owner of the number plate provided the answer," Ms Foley said.

The truck driver was not injured but Ms Foley believed the truck was damaged.

She said as the train driver had been up at the front of the train, he had not been able to see the accident at the rear.

Ms Foley warned motorists to take care at level crossings.

"Over the next few months leading up to Christmas level crossing incidents tend to increase and Toll Rail warns motorists to be particularly vigilant."

- NZPA