Glasgow bin lorries are still without safety breaks a decade after tragedy struck, claiming the lives of six individuals. A fatal accident inquiry led by Sheriff John Beckett KC recommended the installation of an Autonomous Emergency Braking System (AEBS) on waste trucks to prevent future accidents. However, a recent investigation by the Sunday Mail has revealed that only two out of Glasgow City Council’s 33 vehicles are equipped with these safety devices. The tragedy occurred on December 22, 2014, when a bin lorry lost control and collided with pedestrians in George Square, resulting in the deaths of Erin McQuade, her grandparents, Jack and Lorraine Sweeney, Stephenie Tait, Jacqueline Morton, and Gillian Ewing.
Despite the recommendations put forward by Sheriff Beckett, including implementing changes in driving regulations and prosecuting individuals who fail to notify the DVLA of medical conditions, many of these suggestions have not been enforced. An extensive Freedom of Information request disclosed that while some recommendations have been adopted, crucial ones like fitting vehicles with AEBS have been overlooked. The retroactive fitting of AEBS to existing refuse collection vehicles was deemed unachievable by Glasgow City Council, citing the age of some vehicles predating the EC regulation on AEBS implementation.
The lack of safety measures on bin lorries has sparked outrage among the community, with survivors of the tragedy expressing dismay at the oversight. Elaine Morell, who was struck by the bin lorry on that fateful day, voiced her frustration at the authorities for neglecting crucial safety recommendations. Various political figures have also weighed in on the issue, calling for urgent action to ensure the safety of pedestrians and prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
In response to the mounting pressure, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar has pledged to advocate for the UK Government to conduct the necessary consultations on driving regulations and medical declarations. The Department for Transport acknowledged the tragic incident and reiterated their commitment to road safety, emphasizing the legal obligation for drivers to notify the DVLA of any medical conditions that could impact their ability to drive.
As the community continues to demand accountability and action, the unresolved safety concerns surrounding Glasgow’s bin lorries serve as a sobering reminder of the importance of prioritising public safety on the roads. The need for comprehensive safety measures and stringent enforcement of regulations is paramount to prevent similar tragedies in the future.