Hitting Curb? Simple Tips to Avoid Damage and Stay Safe on HGVs

Ever felt a jolt when your truck brushes a curb and wondered what that means? It’s not just a tiny bump – it can damage tires, wheels, suspension, and even the chassis. For HGV drivers, a curb hit can lead to costly repairs, downtime, and safety hazards. Below are practical ways to spot danger, avoid it, and deal with it if it happens.

Why a Curb Hit is Bigger Than It Looks

HGVs carry a lot of weight, so the impact force on a curb is high. A single strike can bend a wheel rim, pop a tire, or misalign the steering geometry. Those problems show up later as uneven wear, shaky handling, or even brake failure. In an industry where every minute counts, a curb hit quickly turns into lost mileage and extra workshop visits.

Everyday Strategies to Stay Clear of Curbs

Know your vehicle’s turning radius. Bigger rigs need a wider sweep, so give yourself extra space when turning into tight lanes or parking bays. Use the mirrors and rear‑view cameras. Modern HGVs often have wide‑angle cameras that show the edge of the wheel well. Keep an eye on them, especially in crowded city streets.

Approach ramps and speed‑bumps slowly. The angle of the wheel changes on these surfaces, making it easier to clip a curb. Slow down, keep the steering steady, and let the vehicle’s suspension absorb the rise.

Watch for road markings. White lines, yellow edges, or painted arrows often indicate a curb zone. Treat them as a visual cue to give extra clearance.

Plan your route. If you know a particular depot or street has narrow curbs, consider an alternative path. Apps that show lane widths or depot layout maps can save you a lot of stress.

Even with the best habits, accidents happen. If you do hit a curb, follow these steps:

• Stop safely. Pull over to the side of the road if you can, and turn on your hazard lights.
• Inspect the wheel. Look for dents, bulges, or tire cuts. A simple visual check can tell you if the tire is still safe to drive on.
• Check the suspension. Push down on the vehicle’s bumper; if it bounces excessively, the suspension may be compromised.
• Report it. If you drive for a company, log the incident immediately. Early reporting can speed up repairs and keep records straight for insurance.
• Get professional help. Even if nothing looks wrong, a qualified mechanic should run a wheel alignment and check for hidden damage.

Remember, preventing a curb hit is all about awareness and giving yourself enough room. Small adjustments in speed, steering, and route planning can save you from expensive fixes later.

Next time you’re navigating a tight alley or pulling into a loading dock, ask yourself: “Do I have enough clearance?” If the answer is no, take a step back, adjust your approach, and keep that rig rolling smoothly. Safe driving starts with the little details, and dodging curbs is one of them.