CRASH RATED BOLLARDS
Are Bollards Supposed to Stop Cars?
When people see metal posts lining sidewalks, storefronts, or parking lots, they often ask: Are bollards supposed to stop cars? The answer is—it depends on the type of bollard.
What are Bollards?
Bollards are sturdy, vertical posts typically made of steel, concrete, or plastic. They’re installed in public and private spaces to control vehicle access, protect property, and ensure pedestrian safety. You’ll often find bollards in front of buildings, around parking lots, or separating walkways from roads.
Can Bollards Stop a Car?
Some bollards are specifically designed to stop cars, while others are decorative or meant for light-duty applications. The ability of a bollard to stop a vehicle depends on factors like material, installation depth, foundation, and the bollard’s rating.
Types of Bollards and Their Capabilities
1. Security Bollards (Crash-Rated)
- Purpose: Designed to stop moving vehicles, including high-speed impacts.
- Materials: Solid steel or reinforced concrete.
- Applications: Government buildings, military zones, embassies, or storefronts vulnerable to vehicle ramming attacks.
- Example: ASTM crash-rated bollards can stop a 15,000 lb truck going 50 mph.
2. Parking and Traffic Bollards
- Purpose: Guide traffic and prevent accidental roll-throughs in parking lots or sidewalks.
- Materials: Steel, sometimes filled with concrete.
- Applications: Retail stores, office buildings, pedestrian zones.
- Note: These can stop low-speed impacts (like parking mishaps) but aren’t built for high-speed crashes.
3. Removable or Retractable Bollards
- Purpose: Offer flexible vehicle access without compromising safety.
- Materials: Steel or aluminum.
- Applications: Events, temporary road closures, gated areas.
- Impact Resistance: Usually not crash-rated unless specified.
4. Decorative Bollards
- Purpose: Add aesthetic value while providing minimal protection.
- Materials: Cast iron, plastic, or fiberglass.
- Applications: Public parks, campuses, or building entrances.
Impact Resistance: Low—these are not meant to stop cars.
Are Bollards Legally Required?
In many commercial and municipal settings, installing protective bollards is part of building or safety codes—especially near pedestrian-heavy zones or glass storefronts. Local regulations or insurance policies may require crash-rated bollards to prevent vehicle-into-building accidents. This happens more often than you think. There have been countless incidents where cars drive through storefronts, shattering windows and putting people at risk.
Why Businesses Install Car-Stopping Bollards
- Protect storefronts from ram-raids or accidental crashes
- Enhance pedestrian safety
- Prevent unauthorized vehicle access
- Reduce liability and insurance risks
Conclusion
So, are bollards supposed to stop cars? Yes, but only certain kinds. Crash-rated bollards are engineered to do so, while others are meant for guidance or visual separation. If you’re a property owner or business manager, it’s crucial to choose the right bollard based on your risk level and the amount of vehicle protection needed.
At Bollard Boys, we have various types of bollards to fit your needs. Browse our selection of bollards today.
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