When you need cash quickly, you look for the nearest ATM. And while many ATMs are found in convenience stores, malls, train stations, and the like, others are located outdoors. Depending on the location of an outdoor ATM, bollards may be necessary. Learn why bollards are essential to customer safety when using outdoor ATMs.

The Wayward Driver Factor

Wayward drivers fall into three main categories: intoxicated, drowsy, and distracted. When an ATM is located on a busy city street or anywhere else that is considered high- traffic, the risk of wayward-driver-related injuries increases. A distracted, sleepy, or intoxicated driver can accidentally drive up on a sidewalk where a person is getting money from an ATM, possibly hitting the customer. This person could sustain serious, if not catastrophic, injuries depending on the severity of the impact and the type of vehicle. The ATM could sustain damage as well. Placing permanent bollards around an ATM significantly reduces the risk of such injuries and property damage. These bollards stop vehicles from going up to 50 miles an hour, which prevents them from making contact with pedestrians and ATMs. Most city drivers go far below 50 miles an hour, making bollards invaluable protection around these machines. Bollards can be staggered so they do not allow vehicles through but still provide enough space for customers to retrieve their money comfortably.

The Intentional Crash Factor

Unfortunately, not all wayward driver-related accidents are that—accidents. Some drivers intentionally ram ATM machines for robbery purposes. And while these drivers generally do not try to hurt pedestrians, passers-by can still be struck and sustain serious injuries. For example, say a driver intends to crash into an ATM and loot its contents. As they gain speed, they are unable to stop in time as a customer “hits up” the ATM. The results could be severe if not fatal. Adding bollards to outdoor ATMs prevents this type of robbery and protects pedestrians using the machines. Permanent bollards also provide customers and ATM owners with invaluable peace of mind. Customers don’t have to worry about getting struck and injured by vehicles, while ATM owners don’t have to worry as much about robbery- related incidents. Bollards come in numerous forms, all of which contribute to safety and security in a wide variety of public, commercial, industrial, and even residential settings. Find the bollards you need today at 1800Bollards, your premier bollard partner on the web.