Despite investments in operations and technology, bridge strike incidents for Go-Ahead buses remain frequent with human error being a significant causal factor. PsyDrive was commissioned to investigate the human factors that contribute to bridge strikes. The aim of the project was to understand the psychological and physiological elements in interaction with the road and traffic environment when on a diversion, taking a wrong turn etc. 

 

Bridge strikes are comparatively rare, and the number of observations is limited. The biggest threat to validity in the research findings is the use of inadequate or inappropriate samples. A mixed method approach was therefore adopted given that each class of data increases confidence in the findings. Data collected from each method should converge and not contradict, although conserving multiple variations. Three studies were designed including 1) a quantitative analysis of Human Factors contributors to 22 bridge strike cases 2) a qualitative analysis of interviews with bridge strike involved drivers and managers, and 3) a knowledge test of low bridge signage and vehicle heights. 

The findings suggest that multifaceted approach to reduce bridge strike incidents across Go-Ahead’s operations should be adopted. Evidence-based interventions designed to improve driver responses to low bridge warnings and Human Factors training for managers to design systems to contain human error in response to bridges were recommended.

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