The Reality Of Wheel Detachment
Whether your business has one vehicle or a nationwide fleet, a 4-wheeled van or a rig with many wheels, understanding the dangers of wheel detachment is critical.
Wheel detachment may seem rare, but the consequences can be devastating. Even with strict maintenance and daily wheel checks, it’s worth taking every step possible to minimise this unnecessary risk.
What Happens When a Wheel Falls Off?
A detached HGV, LGV, bus, or trailer wheel can reach speeds of up to 93mph and weigh up to 110kg—roughly the same as 40 bricks! The collision force? Around 10 tonnes—equivalent to 27,500 bricks hitting a target.
It’s quick, it’s deadly, and it’s estimated that between 150 and 400 wheel detachments occur annually in the UK. Three to seven of these result in fatal accidents, with many more causing serious injuries.
The Consequences of a Detached Wheel
- Vehicle control: The driver loses control and may cause further accidents.
- Traffic disruption: Wheels can block lanes, delay other road users, and require police intervention.
- Legal and financial risks: Negligence can lead to fines, penalties, or criminal charges under various UK laws including the Road Vehicles Regulations, Health & Safety at Work Act, and Corporate Manslaughter Act.
- Reputation damage: Poor OCRS scores, inspections, and company credibility loss.
While it may sound grim, most wheel detachment incidents are completely preventable. Let’s explore the tools and practices that make roads safer.
Proactive Wheel Safety Solutions
Wheel Nut Indicators
Brightly coloured indicators (sizes 17–42 mm) provide a first line of defence, helping drivers spot potential issues during pre- and post-journey checks. However, indicators alone cannot stop a nut from loosening on the road.
Wheel Nut Locks
For maximum protection, wheel nut locks provide a physical barrier over two adjacent wheel nuts, preventing movement and potential detachment.
Both Prolock and Zafety Lug Lock can be used alongside wheel indicators for maximum protection. This combination minimises the risk of wheel nut rotation while alerting drivers to issues during routine checks.
Hot Spot Markers
Overheating can also cause wheel detachment. Our Hot Spot Markers—adhesive temperature labels—turn orange if temperatures exceed 180°C, helping detect issues even after the event.
Parma's Hot Spot Markers – 100 pack at £305.00. Detect overheating before it causes wheel failure and maintain safer operations.
The Importance of Proactive Wheel Safety
Keeping wheels secure isn’t just another box to tick—it’s a vital responsibility. Most wheel detachments are preventable, and with Parma’s innovative products, you can protect your vehicles, drivers, and other road users.
At Parma Group, our mission is to put an end to wheel loss for good.