Bridge Strikes in the UK: An In-Depth Look at Causes, Consequences, and Precaution

Introduction

Imagine driving along a route in the UK, only to be abruptly halted by a loud crash and a sudden jolt. You’ve just experienced a bridge strike—a surprisingly common occurrence on British roads. Bridge strikes, where vehicles such as HGVs and PSVs collide with bridges due to height misjudgments, are more than just costly inconveniences. They pose significant safety risks, lead to traffic disruptions, and incur fines. Let’s look at the implications, understand and outline what drivers should do if they find themselves in such a predicament.

The Magnitude of the Problem

In the UK, bridge strikes are not rare. Network Rail reports over 1,800 bridge strikes annually, costing the rail industry approximately £23 million annually. These incidents can cause severe damage to both the vehicle and the bridge, disrupt rail and road traffic, and sometimes lead to serious injuries or fatalities.

Why Do Bridge Strikes Happen?

1. Inadequate Route Planning: One of the primary causes is poor route planning, where drivers do not check the height restrictions along their planned path.
2. Lack of Awareness: Drivers, particularly those unfamiliar with the route, might miss warning signs indicating the height of an upcoming bridge.
3. Vehicle Modifications: Changes in vehicle height due to added equipment or load can lead to misjudgments.
4. Technological Dependence: Over-reliance on standard GPS systems that do not account for vehicle height can lead to dangerous misdirections.

Consequences of Hitting a Bridge

The repercussions of a bridge strike can be severe:

1. Safety Hazards: The immediate risk is to the safety of the driver and passengers. Collisions at high speeds can cause serious injuries or even fatalities.
2. Traffic Disruptions: Bridge strikes can block roads, causing significant traffic delays. In some cases, rail services are halted to inspect and repair bridge damage.
3. Financial Costs: The cost of repairing damage to both the vehicle and the bridge can be substantial. Additionally, companies may face fines and increased insurance premiums.
4. Legal Repercussions: Drivers can be prosecuted for dangerous driving, leading to fines, points on their licence, or even disqualification from driving.

What To Do If You Hit a Bridge

If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of hitting a bridge, here are the steps you should follow:

1. Stop Safely: Ensure you stop the vehicle as safely as possible to avoid further damage or obstruction.
2. Check for Injuries: Immediately check if anyone is injured and call emergency services if necessary.
3. Report the Incident: Inform the police and, if applicable, Network Rail. Reporting the incident is crucial for safety assessments and initiating the repair process.
4. Document the Scene: Take photos of the damage to both the vehicle and the bridge. This documentation can be vital for insurance claims and legal processes.
5. Contact Your Employer: If you are driving a commercial vehicle, inform your employer or the transport manager within your company.
6. Await Instructions: Follow instructions from the authorities. Do not attempt to move the vehicle until it has been deemed safe to do so.

Preventing Bridge Strikes

Prevention is always better than dealing with the aftermath. Here are some measures drivers and companies can take:

1. Height Awareness: Always know the height of your vehicle, including any modifications or added loads.
2. Proper Planning: Use route planning tools that account for vehicle height. Many specialised GPS systems are designed for larger vehicles, highlighting low bridges and alternative routes.
3. Heed Warning Signs: Pay close attention to road signs indicating bridge heights and restrictions.
4. Regular Training: Companies should provide regular training for drivers on the importance of route planning and height awareness.
5. Use of Technology: Employ telematics and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) that can alert drivers of potential collisions with bridges.

Conclusion

Bridge strikes are a serious issue on UK roads, with far-reaching consequences. By understanding the causes and adhering to preventative measures, drivers can significantly reduce the risk of such incidents. Should the worst happen, knowing the proper steps to take can mitigate the damage and ensure the safety of all involved. Remember, awareness and preparation are key to navigating the roads safely and responsibly.