Why and how to reduce the risk of bridge strikes

Recent landmark legal cases mean Network Rail can now claim back costs incurred by bridge strikes from fleet operators if their vehicles collide with any part of the rail network, with particular emphasis on bridge strikes.¹

A bridge strike is an incident where a vehicle, its load or equipment collides with a bridge, often where roads pass under railways.

With bridge strikes now reported to the Office of the Traffic Commissioner for potential regulatory action against commercial vehicle operators we offer some guidance on the wider implications of bridge strikes and how you can work to reduce the risk.

The wide-ranging impact of bridge strikes

Network Rail reports there are an average of five bridge strikes a day in the UK.

Imagine one of your fleet is involved in one of them. Let’s consider all the potential repercussions, starting with the most serious – the injury or death of your driver, passengers and/or other road users.

Even if the individuals involved avoid death or serious injury, your organisation will suffer significant financial liabilities in repairing the vehicle and dealing with its damaged, lost, contaminated or delayed load. Delayed or lost loads due to bridge strikes may also negatively impact your reputation and relationships with supply chain partners.

Your organisation may also be liable for inspection and repair costs to the bridge and business interruption claims from rail operators.

Finally, regulatory breaches may not only result in fines or penalties but could possibly mean your business will face operator licence restrictions.

Nine-point checklist to reduce bridge strike risk

While bridge strikes can cause significant harm, there are straightforward ways to reduce the risk of your fleet being involved:

For further support on reducing bridge strikes, fleet risk management or any other haulage risk, contact your WTW representative, or our Haulage and Logistics Sales Leader, Stewart Osmond.