Bridge strikes remain one of the most serious and avoidable incidents involving commercial vehicles, yet they continue to happen across the UK rail and road network every single day.

Network Rail records around 1,500-1,800 bridge strikes each year – the equivalent of 4 to 5 strikes every day. Many incidents involve HGVs and buses and are commonly linked to poor route planning, incorrect vehicle height information, unsuitable diversions and reliance on car sat navs or consumer navigation apps.

A bridge strike is not simply a vehicle damage incident. Even a low-speed collision can compromise the structural integrity of a bridge, place rail passengers and road users at risk and cause major disruption to transport networks. The financial consequences can also be significant, with some incidents costing hundreds of thousands of pounds.

Traffic Commissioners take bridge strikes extremely seriously and vocational licence action is a realistic outcome where negligence or carelessness is identified. Operators and drivers should also be aware of published Traffic Commissioner guidance relating to bridge strike prevention and professional driver responsibilities.

Professional drivers must know the travelling height of their vehicle at all times, including any trailer, load or mounted equipment. The correct height must be displayed in the cab where required and updated following loading, unloading or trailer changes.

Route planning also remains critical. Drivers should only use approved HGV routing systems and must never rely on car sat navs or consumer apps such as Google Maps or Waze to determine suitable routes for commercial vehicles.

Bridge warning signs must always be obeyed and drivers should never continue if there is any doubt regarding available clearance.

Bridge strikes are almost always preventable. Knowing your vehicle height, following approved routes and stopping when unsure remain some of the most important safety controls a professional driver can apply.