Richard James made the claim via the Road Haulage Association’s LinkedIn page today.
According to the RHA’s MD, some hauliers “want to see improved signage near low bridges to help prevent trucks hitting them”.
James added that lorry drivers “regularly complain of obscured, poorly sited, and badly maintained signs”.
“This is about prevention not shifting responsibilities – if we can improve safety and reduce costly maintenance bills then we should do,” said James, who also stated that funds from the newly introduced HGV Levy could be used to fund the signage.
Moreover, James called for HGV Levy cash to be used to fund road improvements:
“Levy funds could be put towards road improvements too. Poorly maintained roads lead to collisions and damaged vehicles, and cause unnecessary delays increasing emissions and journey costs.”
According to Network Rail’s latest annual release of bridge strike records, 1,800 bridge strikes occurred between November 2021 and November 2022. This represented a 12.5% year-on-year increase.
The most struck bridge between November 2021 and November 2022 was Stonea Road bridge in Cambridgeshire, which was struck 33 times.
Bridge strikes are estimated to have cost Network Rail almost £12 million in delay and cancellation fees in 2021 and 2022.
Commenting on the figures last November, Sir Peter Hendy CBE, chair of Network Rail, said route planning was key to reducing bridge strikes:
“During this very busy time of year for deliveries, we urge operators and drivers to properly plan their routes, know the height of their vehicles and be vigilant for road signs showing the height of bridges. We will report those who don’t to the Traffic Commissioners, and they risk losing their licenses and livelihoods. Network Rail always looks to recover the entire repair and delay costs from the driver and the operator.”
