Modern trailers are being manufactured with increased capacity behind the rearmost wheels. There are a whole host of benefits for fleet operators from this extended capacity, but one major issue is created by these trailers – tail swing.
What is tail swing, exactly?
Tail swing happens when the rear of a long vehicle swings outwards in an extended arc as the trailer pivots on the rear axles. The longer the distance between the rearmost axle and the rear of the trailer body, the greater the tail swing arc of the vehicle.
Rear-steer rigid vehicles and rear-steer trailers also exacerbate this problem, as the rear turning axle pivots the rear of the vehicle at an even steeper angle than a fixed axle vehicle or trailer.
Due to the sheer size of these vehicles, when the tail swing connects with an object it causes considerable damage—sometimes without the driver realising. As fleet operators will be aware, all damage caused by trucks is costly.
Why rear overhangs are high-risk
When trucks manoeuvre—mainly HGVs with trailers—the outer edge of the trailer, opposite to the direction of turn, is not visible. So with the rear overhang swinging out further, the damage is often done before the driver realises they’re within striking distance of nearby objects.
These tail swing accidents tend to happen during slow manoeuvres. Some examples include:
- Slow turns
- Manoeuvring in small yards or streets
- Navigating roundabouts or junctions
- Driving in areas with high foot traffic or narrow lanes
Even experienced drivers can struggle to judge the swing—and all it takes is one miscalculation.
How to prevent tail swing collisions
Here’s the good news: there are smart, effective ways to protect your vehicles and avoid these costly types of collisions:
1. Fit a tail swing sensor system
This is one of the most effective ways to stop tail swing incidents.
SCC’s advanced sensor systems can be fitted on each side of the rear overhang and are designed to:
- Detect objects or people in the danger zones
- 3ft initial warning zone
- 1ft imminent collision warning zone
- Warn the driver in real time (audible and visual alerts)
This means even if the driver doesn’t see the risk, the system does—and can alert them so action can be taken before a collision.
2. Rear and side cameras
Camera systems can be fitted to cover these tail swing areas. With clear live views and the potential for full rear coverage:
- Drivers can visually see risks as they manoeuvre
- Blind spots are significantly reduced
- Footage is available if an incident occurs (great for training or evidence)
Cameras also boost driver confidence—especially in tight delivery zones or busy city streets.
3. Install audible warnings for vulnerable road users (VRUs)
Cyclists and pedestrians often have no idea how wide a truck’s rear can swing out and can accidentally put themselves in the path of the tail swing.
By fitting external audible or directional noise alarms that activate during turning, you can warn people nearby and give them a chance to step back or move out of the way.
Pair this with visual indicators on the rear and sides of the vehicle to increase visibility for all VRUs.
Fleet operators – the bottom line
Trailers are getting increasingly longer for good reason, but the reality is: if you operate vehicles with long overhangs, tail swing isn’t just a possibility—it’s a daily risk. But with the right technology, you can dramatically reduce collisions, costs, and downtime.
Want to upgrade your safety where it matters most?
SCC’s tail swing protection systems are engineered to work seamlessly with trucks, tippers, trailers, and more—no guesswork, no driver reliance, just real-world safety that works.
Contact us to book a free demo or fleet review today—and let’s make every turn a safe one.
