Curb Driving Tips Every HGV Driver Should Know

If you drive a heavy goods vehicle, the curb is more than a line on the road. It can be a safety trap, a cost trap, or a legal trap if you don’t treat it right. Below you’ll find straight‑forward advice that you can use today to keep your truck away from curb‑related problems.

Why Curb Awareness Matters for HGVs

Heavy vehicles sit higher and have a longer wheelbase than cars. That means a curb that looks harmless to a car can scrape a tyre, damage a suspension, or even cause a tyre blow‑out on an HGV. Many local councils levy hefty fines for curb damage, and a ruined tyre can delay a delivery and cost you hundreds of pounds. In addition, a mis‑judged curb can affect your braking distance, especially on wet roads, putting you and other road users at risk.

Practical Steps to Master Curb Maneuvers

1. Know the curb markings. White lines usually indicate a legal parking place, while red or yellow lines mean no stopping. Look for any signage that limits the length of your vehicle at that spot. If the curb is painted with a double yellow line, treat it as a no‑stop zone.

2. Adjust your mirrors before you approach. Set the side mirrors so you can see the curb edge without straining. A quick glance should tell you whether you’re too close or have enough clearance.

3. Slow down early. Give yourself at least 10 seconds to reduce speed before you reach the curb. A gentle brake lets the engine and transmission work together, keeping the load stable and the truck steady.

4. Use the ‘toe‑in’ technique. Turn the front wheels slightly towards the curb when you’re about a metre away. This lines up the wheel base and helps the rear wheels follow the same path, reducing the chance of a tyre hitting the edge.

5. Keep a safe distance. A good rule of thumb is to leave a gap of at least 30 cm between the tyre and the curb for most HGVs. Measure this once and remember the feel – you’ll start to sense it without looking.

6. Watch the load. Heavy loads shift the centre of gravity. If you’re carrying a high load, the truck may tilt more when you turn towards a curb. Reduce your speed even further and check the load’s balance before you make the move.

7. Practice in a safe area. Find an empty parking lot with a curb and run through the steps a few times. Muscle memory will help you stay calm when you face a real curb on a busy street.

8. Know the penalties. In most UK areas, a curb damage fine starts at £75 and can climb to over £200 for bigger trucks. Knowing the cost can push you to be extra careful.

Applying these tips won’t take long, and the payoff is clear – fewer fines, less wear on your vehicle, and a smoother ride for you and your cargo. The next time you pull up to a curb, take a breath, check your mirrors, and follow the steps. Your HGV will thank you, and so will your schedule.