Council in Satnav Crackdown Call

Truckers should be banned from using satnavs designed for cars, councils claim.

The plea comes after a spate of accidents in which HGVs have caused chaos on routes where the vehicles exceed the height or weight limit.

In Wigan, a low railway bridge at Gathurst causes persistent problems as some drivers find themselves stuck on the Orrell side of the bridge. The trucks can then jack-knife as drivers attempt a three-point turn.

Satnavs specifically designed for lorries are readily available, and include information about bridge heights and narrow roads, ensuring drivers are instructed to follow suitable routes.

The Local Government Association (LGA), representing more than 370 councils, including Wigan's, want it made compulsory for all lorry drivers to use commercial satnav devices. It says the money raised from the scheme could be used to fix potholes, making the roads safer for all road users.

An AA spokesman urged councils to ensure warning signs are clearly visible. He said:

"If a particular road has a particular problem then it's up to the local authority to come up with the signage to deal with that. And obviously if the lorry or any other road user contravenes that road order and that signage then they are open to a penalty."

If you have been injured on the road and believe somebody else was to blame, you may be owed compensation. Call our claims team on 01942 366 388 to find out more.

Allansons Solicitors

Road Accident Claims