Strike it Out campaign launches in Scotland

Campaign aims to make drivers of high vehicles aware of the risks of approaching bridges.

The Strike it Out campaign has been launched to make drivers of high vehicles aware of the risks of approaching bridges.

Figures from national transport agency Transport Scotland, show that bridge strikes is costing the public purse around ￡500,000 a year, although this does not take into account costs for delays to road users from operations to clear the aftermath of bridge strikes or during the repair works

The standard height for a bridge is 16 feet 6 inches, approximately 5 metres, however the majority of strikes occur on trunk road bridges above this height.

In Scotland at least ten road bridges are hit each year, at a danger to the vehicle driver and the public.

Transport Scotland, the national transport agency for Scotland, is investing ￡21,000 in the Strike it Out campaign.

Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson said: ""While it is fortunate that to date there have been no serious injuries or death as a result of a bridge hit, it is important that for a small investment we can raise awareness of these risks and help provide advice to prevent bridge strikes happening in future."

"We are working with a number of industries, including road and freight hauliers, farming, ferries and ports to help communicate the message to drivers of high vehicles to check and plan their route before setting out and carefully consider bridge signs on approach."

Further information:
The Scottish Government