Convenient Stores

Enhancing Safety in Convenience Stores: The Critical Role of Bollards

Convenience stores are vital community hubs, offering quick access to essential goods. However, their design often places them at risk for vehicle-into-building crashes, leading to significant property damage, injuries, and fatalities. Implementing safety measures, particularly the installation of bollards, is essential to protect patrons, employees, and assets.

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The Prevalence of Vehicle-Into-Building Crashes in Convenience Stores

According to the Storefront Safety Council, vehicles crash into commercial buildings and related structures more than 100 times per day in the United States, resulting in approximately 16,000 injuries and over 2,600 fatalities annually.

Convenience stores are particularly susceptible, experiencing up to 20 such crashes daily. Notably, 7-Eleven stores average 1.3 crashes per day across their U.S. locations.

Common Causes of Crashes

Several factors contribute to the high incidence of vehicle-into-building crashes at convenience stores:

Driver Error

Pedal misapplication, where drivers mistakenly press the accelerator instead of the brake, is a frequent cause.

Distracted Driving

The hurried nature of convenience store visits often leads to drivers being inattentive, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Store Layout

Many convenience stores feature parking spaces directly in front of entrances, with vehicles facing the building. This design can result in vehicles crashing into the storefront if control is lost.

Notable Incidents

The consequences of these crashes can be severe:

Chicago, Illinois (2017): A customer standing outside a 7-Eleven was struck by a vehicle that jumped the curb, leading to the amputation of both his legs. The incident resulted in a $91 million settlement, highlighting the serious liabilities associated with such accidents.
Dallas, Oregon (January 2025): A man crashed his truck into a convenience store and proceeded to drive around inside, causing extensive damage.
Corpus Christi, Texas (October 2024): An 83-year-old man accidentally hit the gas instead of the brake, driving his truck into a Times Market convenience store. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the incident caused significant property damage.

The Importance of Bollards

Installing bollards—sturdy, vertical posts designed to prevent vehicles from entering pedestrian areas—can significantly reduce the risk of such incidents. Benefits include:

Protecting People: Bollards provide a physical barrier, safeguarding customers and employees from potential vehicle intrusions.
Preventing Property Damage: By stopping vehicles from crashing into storefronts, bollards help avoid costly repairs and operational disruptions.
Deterring Criminal Activity: Bollards can prevent “ram-raids,” where criminals use vehicles to force entry into stores.

Despite the clear advantages, many existing convenience stores lack these protective measures, leaving them vulnerable to accidents and associated liabilities.

Implementing Bollard Solutions

For effective protection, convenience store operators should consider the following when installing bollards:

Strategic Placement: Install bollards in front of entrances, large windows, and areas where vehicles could potentially breach the building.
Compliance with Standards: Ensure bollards meet relevant safety standards and are capable of withstanding vehicle impacts.
Aesthetic Considerations: Choose designs that complement the store’s appearance while providing robust protection.

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The investment in bollards is minimal compared to the potential costs of accidents, including legal liabilities, medical expenses, and reputational damage.

By proactively installing bollards, convenience store owners can enhance safety, protect their businesses, and demonstrate a commitment to the well-being of their communities.

Contact us today for more information about our safety bollards.