Truckers using cheaper car sat-navs are causing havoc, warn council bosses

Council bosses have warned that cowboy truckers who use cheap sat-navs meant for cars are causing huge problems on Britain’s roads.

The cheaper sat-navs do not warn drivers of height or weight restrictions ahead, leading to blockages and delays for other motorists.

One trucker caused £200,000 damage and closed the historic bridge in Marlow for months after driving a lorry 10 times the structure’s weight limit over it.

Other lorries have been left with roofs ripped off by low bridges or become wedged in narrow historic lanes causing tailbacks and frustration.

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Recently, a lorry in Marlborough caused three-mile tailbacks after it became wedged against a house while attempting to turn a corner.

Unlike normal sat navs, special HGV ones include warnings about bridge heights, narrow roads, and roads unsuitable for trucks.

In particular they allow the driver to enter the lorry’s dimensions – height, width, weight and load – so they are only guided along suitable roads.

But because they are pricier, some drivers are shunning them.

Now council bosses want all truckers to have HGV devices and fine those who flout weight restrictions.

LGA Transport spokesman Cllr Martin Tett said: “There has been a spate of recent accidents involving lorry drivers driving irresponsibly and causing chaos.

“The Government must start taking this issue more seriously and give councils the legislative tools to help their communities and other motorists.

“It is common sense that all lorry drivers should use sat navs designed for trucks.”

He added: “We would stress that most lorry drivers are reputable and drive responsibly. These powers would be targeted at the minority who do not follow the law.

“This is also about protecting the drivers’ safety as well as the safety of residents and other road users.”