'Sucked in': Driver savaged for ignoring $551 road rule in dangerous conditions
A Queensland man has copped a fine, damage to his car and felt the brunt of criticism after driving through floodwaters.
The man, 23, became stuck in floodwaters in Alberta, southwest of Rockhampton, on Tuesday about 4.30pm. Police said the road had “Road Closed” and “Water Over Road” signs placed on it.
The flooded area was about 100 metres long with a depth of two metres.
“The dual cab was quickly swept off the roadway and fortunately became wedged against trees a short distance away,” police said.
“The 23-year-old and his dog then waited on the roof until help arrived.”
Fortunately, the pair were pulled free and the man copped a $551 fine.
“Motorists are reminded that knowingly driving through flood waters is not only extremely dangerous but also an offence,” police said.
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Video of the man’s rescue was shared by Queensland Police on Facebook and needless to say people weren’t exactly sympathetic.
“Sucked in,” one woman wrote.
“He didn't listen after the police have worked with others to keep us all safe. And there is always one or more that doesn't listen.”
Another woman wrote it “serves him right”.
“Bet the dog was embarrassed,” another woman wrote.
A man has been fined after driving around road closure signs into flood waters at Alberta yesterday. The driver, his dog and dual cab were safely towed out by @QldFES https://t.co/JQZnUXd4zZ #ifitsfloodedforgetit pic.twitter.com/CW7l1hdzxv
— Queensland Police (@QldPolice) December 1, 2021
Queensland smashed by rain
Many Queensland towns have been belted by rain over the past 24 hours.
An emergency declaration was made by Queensland Police for the town of Inglewood, southwest of Brisbane, on Tuesday about 9pm with more than 800 residents evacuated following heavy rainfall causing “significant flooding”.
Residents were evacuated to the town cemetery. The town was drenched by more than 72mm of rain in the 24 hours leading up to 9am Wednesday.
Surrounding areas were also lashed by heavy rain.
The Upper Burnett and Bellbird Park each received more than 110mm.
Areas around Toowoomba received anywhere from 70-80mm. Meanwhile, further north, Mount Glorious in the Moreton Bay Region copped 186mm.
BoM meteorologist Jackson Browne said five Queensland catchments near the Granite Belt and Southern Downs experienced major flooding.
Weatherzone meteorologist Joel Pippard told Yahoo News Australia the trough extended from the Gulf of Carpentaria all the way south to Melbourne.
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