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Written question asked by David Kidney (Labour) on Wednesday, 13 July 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 18 July 2005. It was answered by Stephen Ladyman (Labour) on Thursday, 21 July 2005 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Wheel Detachment Incidents

Question
(3) what research his Department has (a) commissioned and (b) evaluated on (i) the risks to road users of wheel detachment from commercial vehicles and (ii) precautions to prevent such incidents.
Answer

Figures are not currently recorded in the form requested, but the table shows the statistics that are available. It should be noted that there may sometimes be delays in listing figures while the findings of coroners' courts are awaited.

Heavy commercial vehicles—wheel detachment—April 2001 to March 2004
Wheeldetachment cases Fatalities
HGV rigids and tractor units 88 0
HGV semi-trailers 7 1
HGV drawbar trailers 6 0
Large passenger vehicles 32 0
Source: VOSA Collision database

The former Department for the Environment, Transport and Regions carried out research into heavy vehicle wheel loss in 1997 in conjunction with the Association of Chief Police Officers. This research led to advice being provided to owners and operators of such vehicles on the benefits of good maintenance and regular effective checking of wheel nuts. A copy of the research report was placed in the House Libraries at the time.Products are available in the marketplace that can either indicate loose wheel nuts or possibly prevent the wheel nut from falling from the vehicle. The Department is seeking a better understanding of the potential of these devices for road safety and is in the final phase of placing a new contract to research these matters.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
12945; 436 c2139-40W;436 c2139-40W
Session
2005-06
Subjects
Components Large goods vehicles