Loose Ladders Fall Off Van, Causing Injuries
A motorist in Blaenau Gwent was treated by paramedics earlier this week after some ladders came loose from a van and struck their car.
According to Wales Online, the incident occurred on Blaen-Afon Road in Brynmawr between 17:30 and 18:00 on Tuesday 28th July. Gwent Police said the ladders fell from the van into the path of the following car, whose driver was treated at the scene by the Welsh Ambulance Service. The van driver reportedly left before police arrived.
This story is a stark reminder of how dangerous loose ladders can be. A ladder that falls from a moving vehicle can cause severe damage and seriously injure other road users. Whether you use your ladder for work or occasional jobs at home, it is essential to secure it properly every time you transport it.
Check Your Ladder Before Every Journey
Never assume that a ladder is secure simply because it stays put while the vehicle is stationary. Before setting off, make sure your ladder is firmly attached to a suitable roof rack or other appropriate carrying system. Use strong, purpose-made restraints, secure the ladder at more than one point, and check that neither the ladder nor its fixings are worn or damaged.
The ladder should not be able to slide forwards, backwards or sideways. Any overhang must comply with the applicable rules and be made clearly visible where required. If you are unsure, our guide to transporting ladders safely offers further advice.
It may also be worth stopping after the first few miles – and periodically during longer trips – to check the restraints that are holding the ladder in place. Movement and vibration can cause these to loosen, even when the ladder appeared secure at the start of the journey.
Use Equipment That's Designed for the Job
Our roof rack ladder clamps are designed to hold ladders securely in place and provide a practical alternative to improvised fastenings.
Make sure the clamps are secure before you set off. A final walk-around only takes a moment and could prevent a serious accident once you're on the road.
Always follow the instructions supplied with both the clamps and your vehicle's roof rack, paying particular attention to load limits and correct fitting.
Consider a More Compact Ladder
If you do not need to carry a full-size extension ladder, a collapsible telescopic ladder may be a convenient alternative. When folded down, telescopic ladders are compact enough to fit in the boot or back seat of many cars, removing the risk of the ladder falling off the roof.
Explore Our Range of Telescopic Ladders
Whichever type of ladder you use, never take shortcuts when transporting it. Secure the ladder correctly, inspect all restraints and recheck the load after driving for a while. These simple precautions can protect you, your equipment and everyone else on the road.
For more information about how to transport ladders safely, click the link below or contact the ladder experts here at Ladders UK Direct.