Vehicular crashes into commercial buildings, retail stores, and pedestrian areas happen more frequently than most people realize. According to the Storefront Safety Council, vehicles crash into buildings more than 60 times per day in the United States, leading to hundreds of deaths and thousands of serious injuries annually. These accidents not only result in tragic loss of life but also cost the insurance industry hundreds of millions of dollars each year. Fortunately, safety bollards provide an effective solution to minimize damage and protect people from vehicle intrusions.
The Rising Threat of Vehicle Incursions
Vehicle crashes into storefronts occur due to various factors, including pedal errors, medical conditions, distracted driving, DUI incidents, and ram-raids—where criminals use vehicles to smash into buildings for theft. These crashes can cause catastrophic damage, particularly when storefronts lack protective barriers.
Some of the most notorious crash-and-grab incidents involve:
- Convenience stores, where criminals target ATMs for quick cash.
- High-end retail stores, such as Gucci and Cartier, where thieves steal valuable merchandise.
- Firearm stores, where stolen weapons pose a public safety risk.
In addition to accidental crashes, deliberate vehicle attacks have become a growing concern. Attacks in Nice, France, Berlin, Germany, and New York City demonstrated the devastating consequences of weaponized vehicle incidents. These attacks highlight the necessity for robust physical security measures, including bollards, to prevent mass casualties and protect high-risk locations.
Safety Bollards: A Proven Solution for Preventing Vehicular Attacks
Bollards serve as an essential safety measure, acting as a physical barrier between vehicles and pedestrians. These protective posts come in various designs and strengths, with crash-rated bollards capable of stopping vehicles traveling at high speeds.
Key benefits of installing safety bollards include:
- Preventing storefront crashes: Properly placed bollards can stop out-of-control vehicles before they cause damage.
- Deterring crime: Ram-raid incidents are less likely when bollards block easy access to entry points.
- Enhancing pedestrian safety: Bollards provide protection in high-traffic pedestrian areas, such as shopping centers and outdoor markets.
- Mitigating liability risks: Businesses and property owners who invest in safety measures reduce their risk of being held liable for preventable accidents.
Industry and Government Regulations
Municipalities across the U.S. are implementing stricter safety regulations to protect people from vehicle intrusions. Some notable legislation includes:
- California’s AB2161 Law: Allows commercial property owners to qualify for insurance discounts by installing safety barriers like bollards.
- Orange County, FL Ordinance: Requires child care providers to install safety barriers at exposed locations.
- ASTM F-3016 Crash Standards: This safety standard ensures bollards can withstand impacts from large vehicles at various speeds.
With increasing legal accountability, businesses that fail to implement protective measures risk costly lawsuits and damages. Notable legal cases have resulted in multimillion-dollar settlements against businesses that neglected to install barriers despite previous vehicle-related incidents.
Where to Install Safety Bollards
To maximize protection, bollards should be strategically placed in high-risk areas, including:
- Retail store entrances and storefronts
- Gas stations and convenience stores
- Restaurants and outdoor dining areas
- Pedestrian-heavy sidewalks and crosswalks
- Government and public buildings
- Event spaces and stadiums
Investing in Safety for a Secure Future
As vehicular crashes and deliberate attacks continue to rise, businesses must take proactive steps to safeguard their properties and customers. Installing safety bollards is a cost-effective solution that prevents accidents, enhances security, and protects lives. Whether securing a retail storefront, public gathering space, or private property, investing in vehicle barriers is a wise decision that reduces risks and liability.
For more information on safety bollards and protective barriers, visit SBI Industrial to explore effective storefront protection solutions.
