New driver training module targets damaging bridge strikes

We are delighted to announce the launch of our new online driver training module, which is focused on reducing the risk of bridge strikes.

According to data from Network Rail, “on an average day, the drivers of at least five heavy goods vehicles and/or buses, put themselves, road users and the public travelling on the trains at risk”. Their research found that 32% of drivers admitted to setting off whilst not being aware of the height of their vehicle. 56% did not consider low bridges when planning their journey.

Bridge strikes can cause major traffic delays and cost millions of pounds in repairs.

If a railway bridge is struck, the chances of loss of life and injury are even greater because a train could de-rail. 14 strikes were recorded in one day in 2019, out of a total 1,787 strikes recorded that year. The estimated cost to the UK economy was circa £23 million. 1,572 bridge strikes were reported across the railway network in the UK from April 2022 to March 2023. Most bridge strikes occur where roads pass under railway bridges. However, all types of bridges can be affected.

“Low bridges are very clearly signposted and marked, and there is really no excuse for a driver to collide with one. Drivers are either not concentrating, haven’t planned their journey properly, do not know their vehicle height or are willing to take a gamble. This results in a risk to life, huge disruptions and enormous expense.”

Jonathan Mosley, sales & marketing director at E-Training World

Using in-vehicle footage, the new training module helps drivers recognise vital information such as low bridge ahead warning signs.

It also trains drivers on what to do in the event of a bridge strike to minimise disruption and damage. Drivers are encouraged to take no risks.

“The height and width of a vehicle must be displayed inside the cab,” Jonathan continues. “But the height and width of a load may change the vehicle’s overall dimensions. If a road has been resurfaced recently, a bridge sign’s height may not be accurate. It is always better to proactively manage the risk by taking a moment to check. By targeting training in risk areas like bridge strikes, companies can reduce the risk of collisions and build a safe driving culture.”

E-Training World is a two-time winner of the BusinessCar Techies ‘Best Risk Management’ Award and a company that pioneered online driver profiling and training. In addition to serving some of the largest fleet operators in the UK, they provide branded/white-labelled systems to many of the best-known companies in the fleet sector. These include insurance companies, fleet management specialists, accident management providers, driver training businesses, vehicle rental specialists and other fleet sector suppliers.