Five commercial vehicles smash into railway bridges every single day across the UK, prompting Network Rail to launch its 'Wise Up, Size Up' campaign targeting professional drivers who fail to check their vehicle heights.
The rail operator recorded over 1,800 bridge strikes last year, each collision triggering costly repairs and widespread disruption for passengers and road users alike. Line closures and diversions follow most incidents, with Network Rail spending millions annually on repairs and compensation for delayed services.
The campaign will deploy digital route planning tools, improved signage at notorious low bridges, and direct outreach to haulage firms and driver training centres. Network Rail is working with logistics industry partners to hammer home the message that drivers must know their vehicle dimensions and plan accordingly.
"The focus is on proactive prevention, rather than reactive repair," the rail operator said, providing drivers with information and tools to avoid collisions before they happen.
Whilst most strikes cause minor damage, some trigger serious structural problems requiring extensive engineering work and prolonged closures. The knock-on effects ripple through freight movements, commuter services and intercity travel, causing frustration for thousands of passengers and businesses.
Network Rail hopes the preventative approach will reduce these avoidable incidents, improving rail network reliability whilst freeing up resources currently spent on repairs. The long-term goal is creating a safer environment for road and rail users while enhancing the efficiency of Britain's transport system.
Source: Network Rail