Key facts
- Date and time
- August 4, 7.34am
- Vehicle
- DAF flatbed truck
- Location
- Woodmere Avenue, North Watford
- Width restriction
- 2.1 metres
- Previous incidents
- Car crash on July 4; another crash in April
- Redesign year
- 2022
Background
The Woodmere Avenue width restriction in North Watford was introduced to prevent HGVs from using the road as a rat run between the A41 and Bushey Mill Lane, as the road is not suitable for large numbers of heavy vehicles.
The restriction was redesigned in 2022, and the regularity of crashes has been well down since then. However, incidents still occur, including a car hitting the bollards on July 4 and another crash in April.
Current situation
On August 4 at 7.34am, a DAF flatbed truck driving from the A41 side hit the bollards twice, despite slowing down to pass through the restriction. Ring doorbell footage shows the truck hitting the first bollard on its left with the flatbed rear section, then stopping briefly before hitting the final bollard in the same place again.
The driver then continued their journey. While the exact model is unclear, even the narrowest DAF trucks are typically slightly wider than the 2.1-metre width restriction specified on signs in the road.
There is a larger space through the middle of the carriageway, but this is for buses only.
| Date | Vehicle | Details |
|---|---|---|
| August 4, 2026 | DAF flatbed truck | Hit bollards twice |
| July 4, 2026 | Car | Hit bollards |
| April 2026 | Unspecified | Crash |
Impacts
The repeated incidents highlight ongoing challenges with the width restriction, despite the redesign. Each crash can cause damage to the bollards and potential disruption to traffic on Woodmere Avenue.
The restriction is intended to protect the road from heavy vehicle traffic, and incidents like this may undermine its effectiveness. Local residents and drivers may be affected by the need for repairs and the continued presence of HGVs using the road.
Future outlook
Scenario analysis: The possibilities below are not certain predictions.
If the frequency of crashes continues, authorities may consider further measures to enforce the restriction, such as the ANPR system that has already triggered 1,700 fines within months at another infamous width restriction.
However, the restriction is reportedly 'going nowhere' despite ANPR success, suggesting that the current approach may remain in place. Future incidents could prompt renewed calls for alternative solutions, but any changes would depend on local council decisions.
The situation may improve if drivers become more aware of the restriction, but the recent incidents suggest that compliance remains an issue. Without additional measures, similar crashes could occur again.
Source: watfordobserver.co.uk
