Network Rail Concern Over Continued Bridge Strikes

Following another recent bridge strike in Warwickshire, Network Rail has once again warned hauliers to check the height of their vehicles.

In the incident, significant damage was caused to a bridge in Leamington Spa, with the bridge and road needing to be closed.

Marc Vipham, Network Rail route asset manager said bridge strikes like this were entirely avoidable:

“I can’t stress enough how important it is for drivers to know the height of their vehicle. Closing a key line for freight traffic has a serious impact on delivering critical supplies to many key workers and institutions.”

Network Rail research carried out last year showed that 43% of lorry drivers admitted to not measuring their vehicle before hitting the road, and 52% admitted to not considering the risk posed by low bridges.

The organisation’s “Lorries Can’t Limbo” campaign was launched to raise awareness of the issue, however strikes have continued to occur, with an average of five per day believed to occur.

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To combat the issue of bridge strikes, Microlise has developed the Driver Hazard Warning mobile app, which alerts drivers to upcoming low bridges depending on their direction of travel and vehicle profile.

Drivers receive audible and visual warnings of upcoming risks through the Microlise DriveTab, a ruggedised tablet device, allowing them to take corrective action before a bridge strike occurs.

With operators now potentially liable for both repairs to bridges and any compensation costs to rail customers impacted by delays, a bridge strike can have serious financial repercussions, over and above the safety risks.

If you’d like to know more about our Driver Hazard Warning app, please get in touch.

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