Bridge Strike resulting in A23 closure and driver conviction

21 September 2022

Did you know according to Network Rail, the number of bridge strikes peaks in October, rising to almost 10 per day? As October is almost here we thought we would examine one case in a bit more detail.

This is a real-life case of a bridge strike which resulted in the A23 being shut in both directions while the security of the bridge was inspected by engineers.

A driver failed to safely stow a digger bucket on the back of his truck and struck a bridge over the A23.

The arm collided with a bridge with such force that the impact severed the digger bucket from the vehicle. the driver then continued to drive until he was stopped by police. The Police  questioned Mr Schofield and discovered that the truck also had two defective tyres at risk of exploding.

The driver failed to stow the digger bucket safely despite the vehicle being fitted with an alarm system, warning the driver of the fault.

It is the responsibility of drivers to make sure their vehicle is roadworthy and that the load has been safely secured or stowed.

Subsequently the driver admitted to dangerous driving at Brighton Magistrates Court and was disqualified from driving for a year, had to complete 100 hours of unpaid work and must take an extended re-test before he is allowed to drive again. He also had costs awarded against him.

To avoid this situation and keep your team trained in this area, please attend our next bridge strike eTraining session or for any advice, please contact our Regulatory Team on 01254 828300.