Being an HGV Driver has its challenges. Steering a journey towards a successful career requires one to achieve certifications, licenses, compliance, and valuable opportunities. However, accidents like Bridge Strikes endanger lives and stain reputations with negative points and hefty penalties. One blunder is all it takes to lose everything you have earned.
But the good news is, that a little effort and vigilance improves road safety and prevents you from accidents. This piece will help you understand bridge strikes, their repercussions and prevention techniques.
Read this blog while slurping your favourite cup of joe or pass it to someone who needs to know.
What Is a Bridge Strike?
A bridge strike is simply when a running vehicle or its load hits a bridge. But the events that follow are not as simple as they sound. Did you know, 1833 bridge strikes occurred across the UK between April 2021 and March 2022, according to Network Rail?
If that does not stir up concerns, I am sure the following stats would.
- An average of 5 HGVs or Buses hit bridges daily in the UK.
- Railways suffer approximately 2000 bridge strikes yearly, costing the taxpayer £23m in damages and delays.
- In 2019, the costliest strike amounted to £1.8m in train delay costs.
Oh, the horror! Take a minute to breathe and let that sink in.
Red Flags That Cause Bridge Strikes
What causes bridge strikes? It’s probably the first question asked when the incident takes place, or maybe not. However, studies show different reasons for bridge strikes, and understanding these factors is essential to help prevent accidents in future.
Lack of Awareness
Several articles emphasise that drivers have unclear knowledge of the vehicle’s dimensions. According to a study by Driver Hire Nationwide, 43% of drivers don’t measure the vehicle’s height before setting off on their journey. It’s important to note that the measurement could vary due to loading or unloading and if the HGV is new.
Poor Signage
In some cases, unclear or inadequate signage has been the cause of bridge strikes. This occurs especially when the driver is unfamiliar with the location. The authorities could be held accountable for missing or unclear road signs that cause collisions.
Incorrect Route Planning
Who’s your biggest enemy? If you’re an HGV driver, I’m sure the answer is low bridges. Research by Driver Hire Nationwide indicates that 52% of drivers don’t consider low bridges in route planning. Furthermore, using a GPS that doesn’t avoid low bridges is problematic while driving big vehicles.
Fatigue and Distraction
Long hours on the road can lead to driver fatigue, which diminishes their ability to notice warning signs. An article by VUE states that 10-20% of crashes are due to fatigue. Distractions within the cab can also prevent drivers from focusing on the road ahead.
As that saying goes, ‘with great power, comes great responsibility.’ But if you falter while driving a powerful HGV, there are consequences.
What are the Consequences?
No good can come out of a Bridge Strike. Therefore, HGV drivers must understand its effects to avoid the trouble.
- The safety of the driver, pedestrians, other vehicles and trains comes at risk. Bridge Strikes can cause serious injuries and deaths.
- Drivers can be legally prosecuted for careless or dangerous driving and licences can be suspended.
- The Traffic Commissioner can revoke operators’ licenses and directors can be disqualified for failing to maintain systematic procedures that could prevent the accident.
- Repairs of damages and infrastructure, traffic and rail management and associated expenses result in increased finances.
- Negative publicity and photographs would result in reputational damage to a person or business.
We finally arrive at the question of significant importance…
How to Prevent Bridge Strikes?
Bridge Strikes are avoidable if HGV Drivers take proactive measures. These are healthy practices that should be taken into consideration before setting off on the journey.
Know Your Vehicle’s Height
According to Drive Hire Nationwide, if the HGV’s height is above 3 meters, it’s legally required to display its maximum height. However, always be aware of your vehicle’s height, including any additional load height.
Use HGV-Specific Navigation Tools
GPS for smaller vehicles lack information suitable for trucks and lorries. Invest in a navigation system designed for HGVs, which considers height restrictions and recommends suitable routes.
Plan Your Route Carefully
HGV Drivers, the last thing you want is to encounter low bridges on your journey. Plan your route strategically for avoidable obstacles. If you are unsure about the location, consult online resources or speak to colleagues who may be familiar with the area.
Stay Alert
Always look for height restriction signs, especially in unfamiliar areas. Comply with road signs and stay focused. Avoid distractions that could cause you to miss important signage.
Regular Training and Education
Participate in ongoing training and workshops on road safety and bridge strike prevention. Seek professional advice on complex routes and challenges you may face from transport managers and local authorities. Staying informed about best practices can make a significant difference.
In recent news, E-Training World launched a new driver training module designed to reduce the risk of Bridge Strikes. According to BBP Media, they are a multi-award-winning provider of online driver profiling. Similarly, several companies make efforts to inform drivers about preventing collisions with bridges through training, news articles, blogs and other latest sources of information.
Conclusion
Bridge strikes are avoidable if drivers and companies take the necessary steps. The key is to plan efficiently, use the correct tools, continuously learn and stay focused on the road for yourself and the safety of others.
Whether you’re setting out on your very first journey (congratulations in advance), or have been an expert in the field, we encourage you to keep the knowledge process going and share information. Access the sources in this blog to learn how to prevent bridge strikes and other incidents that could happen on the road.
The HGV Driver Group is committed to serving the HGV Community with our Driver Payment Solutions. We collaborate with Freelancers and Limited Companies to help HGV Drivers stay within the IR35 status. We work closely with Agencies and Hirers to provide them with Legal and Compliant candidates.
Tell us in the comments prevention methods you use to avoid Bridge Strikes.
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Stay safe out there!
