Vehicle crashes into commercial spaces, storefronts, and public areas are a growing concern. That is why we are so passionate about safety bollard protection in commercial environments. According to the Storefront Safety Council, these incidents occur over 60 times per day in the United States, leading to serious injuries, fatalities, and costly property damage. Whether caused by pedal error, distracted driving, DUI incidents, or deliberate vehicle attacks, businesses must take proactive steps to safeguard their properties and patrons. Installing safety bollards is one of the most effective solutions to prevent these incidents and mitigate risks.
The Increasing Risk of Vehicle-Into-Building Crashes
Storefront crashes are often underreported yet highly preventable. These accidents arise from various factors, including:
- Driver pedal confusion, where motorists mistakenly press the accelerator instead of the brake.
- Distracted driving, especially due to mobile phone use.
- Ram-raids, where criminals drive vehicles into storefronts to commit theft.
- Medical emergencies, such as heart attacks or seizures while driving.
- Terrorist attacks, where vehicles are used as weapons against pedestrians.
Notable past incidents underscore the need for greater protection. The South by Southwest (SXSW) Festival tragedy in Austin, Texas, where a vehicle plowed through barricades, killing four and injuring over 20, demonstrated the devastating consequences of unsecured pedestrian zones. Similarly, a crash at a KinderCare daycare center in Orlando killed one child and injured 15 when an out-of-control vehicle breached the building. These cases highlight the importance of physical barriers in high-risk areas.
How Safety Bollards Prevent Accidents and Attacks
Bollards serve as a first line of defense against vehicle intrusions. These sturdy, fixed posts create a protective barrier, preventing vehicles from breaching storefronts, pedestrian areas, and other vulnerable spaces.
Key benefits of safety bollards include:
- Preventing vehicle crashes: Crash-rated bollards can stop a vehicle moving at high speed, reducing the impact force.
- Protecting pedestrians: Strategically placed bollards shield customers and employees from accidental crashes and deliberate attacks.
- Reducing property damage: Bollards prevent vehicles from entering buildings, minimizing repair costs and insurance claims.
- Enhancing crime prevention: Ram-raids become significantly harder when bollards block easy vehicle access.
Industry Standards and Regulations for Safety Bollard Protection
To ensure effectiveness, safety bollards must comply with industry standards and government regulations. Several municipalities and organizations have implemented guidelines for bollard placement and strength, including:
- ASTM F-3016 Crash Testing Standard: This guideline tests the ability of bollards to withstand impacts from vehicles weighing up to 5,000 pounds at speeds of 10-30 mph.
- California’s AB2161 Law: This law encourages businesses to install security barriers by allowing insurance discounts for properties with protective measures.
- City and state ordinances: Municipalities like Orange County, FL, and cities in California now mandate the installation of safety bollards in high-risk areas such as childcare centers, government buildings, and storefronts.
Strategic Placement of Safety Bollards
For maximum protection, businesses must install bollards in high-traffic and vulnerable areas, including:
- Retail storefronts and shopping malls
- Restaurants with outdoor seating
- Gas stations and convenience stores
- Public gathering areas, such as parks and stadiums
- Government and municipal buildings
- Event spaces and entertainment venues
According to the National Institute of Building Sciences, implementing vehicle mitigation barriers in public spaces can significantly reduce the risk of accidental and deliberate vehicle-related incidents (source).
Choosing the Right Bollards for Maximum Security
Not all bollards provide equal protection. Businesses must select the appropriate type of bollards based on their specific security needs.
- Fixed Bollards – These permanently installed bollards provide the highest level of protection and are ideal for storefronts and public spaces.
- Removable Bollards – These offer flexibility for event venues and temporary security zones.
- Retractable Bollards – Often used in restricted-access areas, retractable bollards allow controlled entry while maintaining security.
- Crash-Rated Bollards – Engineered to withstand high-speed impacts, these bollards are suitable for government buildings and critical infrastructure.
Investing in Safety for Long-Term Protection
With the increasing frequency of vehicle crashes into buildings, considering safety bollard protection and investing in safety bollards is no longer optional—it’s a necessity. Beyond compliance with regulations, bollards offer peace of mind to business owners, employees, and customers by ensuring a secure environment.
For businesses looking to install high-quality safety bollards, visit SBI Industrial for industry-leading protective solutions. Prioritizing security today will prevent accidents, save lives, and reduce liability risks in the future.
