Bumpy bridge joints and steering errors: when so many accidents happen in the bend of the E19 to the ring around Brussels
The road surface on the connection loop in Machelen was replaced in 2015 but that connection tens of thousands of cars and trucks every day. Due to the turning circle and the extra friction of the vehicle’s tires on the road surface, the asphalt also wears out faster. After six years, the asphalt in such a place is no longer in the best condition.
However, that is not the most acute problem. It is mainly the bridge joints. Built in the 1970s, of course maintained, but no longer the best of its kind. Anyone who passes over feels some of it occurring. A federal police source points to the combination of the condition of conspicuous small and lighter vehicles in crashes and steering errors by motorists. The bridge joints cause a ‘bump’ that vehicles even rise. Especially when the road surface is wet, those cars will skid. At that time, many drivers react incorrectly. They will oversteer to the left and come catapulted to the outside of the corner first. Especially the first joint at the beginning of the bend would be a problem.