Bridge Strike – At Traffic Commissioner’s Preliminary Hearing TC Takes No Action

Solicitor Laura Newton represented our client before the Traffic Commissioner and helped avoid any action being taken against them. The company, an Operator with Licences in 5 geographical areas authorising the use of over 400 vehicles, had been called to Preliminary Hearing following the driver hitting a bridge whilst driving a company vehicle. The Traffic Commissioner required assurances that the approach to road safety and risk was appropriate, which was demonstrated in a detailed bundle showing training, risk assessments and company policies. The Traffic Commissioner was satisfied that the systems were appropriate and decided to take no action. The Traffic Commissioner has the power to issue a warning at a Preliminary Hearing or can convene a Public Inquiry where more serious action can be taken. Bridge Strikes are taken very seriously and Operator’s must route plan where possible and have effective systems to mitigate risks.