Following bridge strike, Public Inquiry avoided

Richard Dawson was instructed by DAC Beachcroft to represent a prominent logistics company before the Traffic Commissioner.

The Operator had been called to a preliminary hearing after one of their vehicles was involved in a bridge strike incident. The TC was persuaded that lessons had been learnt following this incident and that the company had in place systems and procedures to minimise the risk of bridge strikes, such that it was not necessary to convene a full Public Inquiry.

The driver involved had his vocational licence suspended for a period of 1 month (reduced from a starting point of 6 months to reflect mitigation).

Thanks to Stephen Sadler of DAC Beachcroft for his careful handling and detailed preparation of this case.

Richard Dawson is an expert trial lawyer, specialising in transport law, defending companies and individuals facing regulatory investigation and prosecution.