Lorry Reprimand Update

One of the companies that was in charge of one of the lorries in the clip has been back in touch.
Original Video - • Lorry Reprimands
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[@mackemforever]

As somebody whose business was once subject to the wrath of the internet after appearing on one of those "driving fail" youtube channels, I applaud Ashley for handling this the way he does. No histrionics, no drama, keeping the identity of the companies secret as much as he can, and approaching the companies directly to make them aware of the actions of their drivers. In 2016 I started a mobile car detailing business. It was a small business, just me doing everything. It was going really well, I had a few hundred google reviews, an average rating of 4.9 and was at a point where I was getting so many new enquiries that I was booked solid about 3 months in advance. Then one day in February 2021 I started getting 1 star reviews, and lots of them. After 48 hours I had over 100 reviews, throwing insults at me, calling me scum, making up lies about the standard of my work, saying I was racist, that I drive like a maniac, and so on. After a week or so the reviews started dying down, but by that stage I had around 250 1 star reviews. After a few days I found out why. A clip of my work van had appeared on a "driving fail" youtube channel. The video was from a biker who claimed that I'd cut him and his mate off at a junction, then once they overtook me I was tailgating them, shouting, swearing, gesturing, honking. The video didn't show me cutting them off, that was just said in text before the video started. In the video, the biker turns around and you see my van quite close to the back of his mates bike, and you see me honk and throw my hand in the air in that kind of "what are you doing" gesture. A few moments later he stops and gets off his bike, comes up to my window giving it all that "what are you doing? Why are you driving so close?" attitude. I respond with "Tell your mate to stop riding like a *bleep*" and then pull around their bikes and the video ends. The text overlay on the video said that the word they'd beeped out was a racist slur. The thing is, I also had a camera and mine was recording the entire time, both interior and exterior, and what actually happened was that they pulled out infront of me at a junction, I honked briefly (literally just a quick beep of the horn) and then the camera guys mate started swerving back and forth in front of me, giving me the middle finger, randomly jumping on the brakes, riding way below the speed limit for a few seconds, then accelerating again. The entire time he was doing this I only honked my horn once more and that was after about the sixth time he'd brake checked me. Other than throwing a hand up in frustration that last time, I didn't gesture once, I didn't shout or swear once, and when he came up to my window what I said was "Tell your mate to stop riding like a dickhead". It took me months of fighting with google to get some of the reviews removed, but they refused to take down any reviews from people who were pretending to be a customer, because no matter what evidence I provided they refused to accept that they were fake reviews. I showed them the youtube video that started it all, my unedited video of the same event to prove that none of what was claimed was true, my full booking history (with the consent of my customers) to show that none of the people who were claiming to be unhappy customers had ever booked a service with me, dozens of emails I'd received from people along the lines of "Hope you enjoy the 1 star review", and it was all ignored. My business went from a 4.9 rating to around a 3.1, and completely broke it. My existing customers were great, they knew that it was nonsense, but I was getting almost no new enquiries. Arond 18 months later I closed the business to move on to something else, but right to the end it never recovered. 18 months spent fighting to get the fake reviews removed, and there were still around 60 remaining at the end. My rating was still severely damaged, and until the very end it was still making it almost impossible to find new customers. Far too often these "driving fail" channels show edited videos, that deliberately don't include relevant bits, don't show the whole story, often aren't even close to showing what actually happened, and cause real damage to real people. It doesn't matter if you can prove a video didn't show the real story, because once it's out there you can't stop it. You can provide all the proof you want to show the video didn't reflect the truth, but it makes no difference. Almost nobody who sees the "dramatic" version will see the accurate version. People will see a video that shows one side of an event, judge you based off that, go and throw a horrible review on your business, send you a vile email, and then forget about it. They think it's a laugh, they think it's justified, they don't think for a second that maybe they didn't have the whole story, and that their actions cause real harm. Thank you Ashley for being different, for doing things right.

[@fubar12345]

Sounds bloody awful mate. Reviews these days are frankly untrustworthy in general - gone are the days of them being a useful insight. Witchhunts like the one you described based on false or twisted information, but also sellers on amazon and other sites spamming their competition with fake reviews - while boosting their own with positive fake reviews, etc etc. People should not trust reviews, or comments, or upvotes, or downvotes. All of this is easily manipulated and/or falsified. I would guess that at least half of all comments on the internet now are bots, you really cannot tell anymore though. A disturbing time.

[@Colin_]

Thats the problem with the ridiculous 'cancel culture' where people with no actual information just make it up as they go along.

[@neddyseagoon9601]

​@@fubar12345you even get something similar when trying to investigate and to attempt balance within comments, even here. Often backed with official figures etc yet you'll often get someone who's 6 months of driving and their feelings and misinterpretation of the Highway Code, trumps 46 years of driving and training others on all types of vehicle, including Police cars and a period spent on collision investigation. Of course, I can be wrong in almost anything. I love it when it's proved that I am because it makes me better at something, next time. But someone's feelings, alone, is not evidence of being wrong, if you get me. But boy do they misunderstand, misinterpret and create havoc instead of simply joining the debate with some (preferably complete), facts or actual responses when questioned about what they feel and why their feeling beat facts.

[@mitchrils]

Very sorry to hear that mate, ticks me off to hear someone trying to make an honest go at starting a business get completely screwed over something so stupid. Wishing you the best of luck in the future pal

[@Youremywifenkwdave]

Link?

[@grahamwalker6395]

Blurring the identity of the company is the correct move. I ran a freight company a while ago and the behaviour of drivers should not reflect on the company but should be brought to their attention. I have fired drivers for behaviour similar to this with no hesitation because any staff that are public facing are responsible for the image of the company but more importantly, public safety. Driving any heavy goods vehicle carries a greater responsibility to ensure the safety of other road users.

[@chrishar110]

I always have in my mind when I drive a lorry that I am the company's image on the road. A moving advertisement, good or bad, it depends how I drive and how I behave to the other road users. Honestly, not all supervisors - managers appreciate that, because sometimes it might cost time and we have a very tight schedule. If they can not understand I just spend a few days to find another company.

[@joshowni]

Makes a lot of sense and is the correct move, I appreciated the way Ashley explained it too

[@Rachel_M_]

I trained in photography decades ago. Although keeping the company names there is technically legal, the question should be "Is it in the public interest" as part of ethics considerations.. In my view "Discretion is the better part of valour". If it was I'd take the view that The company names in this instance are irrelevant in terms of public exhibition. It is the action that is under scrutiny.

[@Wonderkid44]

Always had a good amount of respect for lorry drivers. Hard job, by hard workers. But with anything there is very bad apples that can ruin the image of many.

[@Bin-The-L-Plates]

The HGV video created a difficult decision for you, and this video has highlighted the problems of social media ‘reprimands’ and I think you’ve handled it superbly. I had a similar situation many years ago on a driving lesson when a local company van tried to force us off the road, and my pupil was really shaken up over the incident. I knew the company well as I had previous business connections to them before becoming an ADI, so I visited them and spoke to the owner about what had happened. He asked to view the footage, and was understandable angry, but I asked him not sack the driver but to let me do some training with him. He agreed, and the van driver was shocked by his own actions and ashamed of his behaviour and we competed a great half day of training and I believe we worked together to improve his driving. I’ve been back a few times to do other Fleet work for the company.

[@ashley_neal]

Great result. I would've happily gone to see both of the drivers in the original video free of charge.

[@insightphoto]

Wow this is absolutely brilliant, such a positive way of working with people. It must have ataken a lot of patience on your part to have the offending driver in your vehicle as a student

[@smilerbob]

⁠​⁠​⁠@@insightphotoI think more importantly it gave the van driver a lot of humility to become the student once more A perfect result and as you say a positive way to work with people. Education before punishment 👍

[@awild10]

It's never nice to hear of someone losing their job but it's a timely reminder that your employers livery on your vehicle is the same as the badge on your uniform and when you drive for them you represent them. I had a positive experience a while back when I phoned a local heating company after two of their lads I was following chucked a load of McDonald's debris out of their window next to our kids school. Their boss was not amused to have members of the public reporting this sort of behaviour and promptly sent them back out to pick it up!

[@runarandersen878]

This is a very nice way if handling it. I am impressed. This reminds me an incident in Norwegian football a few months ago: During a match the football referee got a bottle thrown in his head. It was kid around 13 years old I think. People was angry. But the referee invited the kid a for long talk and even invited him to join him during a match and the work behind and preparations. I am sure the act from that referee changed the kids life.

[@seekeroftruthandjust]

I am a HGV qualified instructor but I haven't used it for a long long time. I am currently a self employed HGV driver. One of the biggest things I used to impress on my HGV candidates was DO NOT USE THE SIZE OF YOUR VEHICLE TO BULLY OR INTIMIDATE OTHER ROAD USERS. Both these clips filled me with horror and both of those drivers should have their vocational licenses taken away. No ifs buts or maybes Thanks for this superb KZbin channel

[@DrRusty5]

Lorry tiday, right up behind me flahsing lights (roadworks and average speed cameras). The lorry then took the slip road but late and hence ran close to my near side!

[@chrishar110]

@@DrRusty5 Were you in the middle lane? Were you on the speed limit or 5 mph below? You can not force somebody to stay below or even above the speed limit (lorries can not use the last lane on the motorway to overtake you) If you blocked that lorry, (that's not an excuse to bully other road users) it was your mistake first and his BIG mistake after yours. Next time just use the first lane even if you are above the speed limit and let other road users to get the ticket they deserve.

[@mixerfistit5522]

​@@chrishar110 they said there was roadworks and average speed limit. Not having a go at you but you've made quite a few assumptions before offering your advice on how they should drive but I would think the most obvious assumptions are the ones you left out and that it was possibly a single lane and that they were doing the speed limit anyway. IF they were doing 5 below then it should be noted that it's a limit not a target. The weather has been terrible in some areas of UK today and the conditions may not fit even the reduced speed limit. Where I was driving today, everyone was down to 40 in a 70 of their own accord due to the heavy rain. Recently a driver was recently held partly responsible for using excessive speed after hitting a child that ran out in front of them. They were travelling 28 in a 30. Besides that, even over 3 miles, you'd only lose 24s driving at 45 in a 50, not worth killing for. I've had a van on my bumper with main beams while I was at the end of a 40 average. They could'nt wait 150 metres where the limit went back to 70 (60 for them on a dual carriageway) and guess what, they overtook and 200 metres on they went off the slip road behind other cars as I past them again gaining zero time. I've even had a car overtake in a built up area and drop into the gap of 3 car lengths between me and the car in front. Why such a gap? Because they're was red lights and queuing traffic, turned out they were turning right and once again I passed them while they gained zero time. The lack of intelligence with road users astounds me, not enough people think 2 steps ahead. We all make mistakes but some people really force them. Anyway, if you're still reading this, you all have a good night 😴

[@chrishar110]

@@mixerfistit5522 As a driver I can tell you that one minute can make the difference between go home on time, or get a ticket, or go home 45 minutes later, or even sleep in the truck without food or a blanket, sleeping bag, pilow, or even heat in a freezing night. Transport managers make the plan tight even if everything is perfect. They cannot understand that there is traffic, accidents, roadworks, road closures and you stuck at the services or at the lay bay 20 minutes away from the yard and you have 19 minutes available to drive. I know, because all these happened to me. For God's shake I do not say that HGVs have the right to stuck on your bumper and flash you the lights. I say that it is your right to go 10 mph below the speed limit, but you have to let him pass if it is legal even if he is above the speed limit.

[@mixerfistit5522]

@@chrishar110 that's fair enough but nothing in OPs post suggested they were blocking them in any way other than being in roadworks with a speed camera. Most hgv drivers I encounter have good road sense and I see cars causing them issues - a common one is stopping an artic or rigid from turning left into a 90 degree junction instead of holding back and letting them sweep in. It would often cost the car driver zero time and in some instances save them time by improving visibility and easing traffic on tight roads further along their route. That's where the real differences can be made but as I mentioned earlier, too many drivers don't look further than 10 metres in front of their bumper.

[@davidpierce3217]

This is appropriate. This incident is not like someone making your sandwich wrong. That truck driver could have killed someone

[@chris107892]

Depends on how wrong they make your sandwich "Natasha Ednan-Laperouse died aged 15 in 2016 after an allergic reaction to a Pret A Manger baguette bought at Heathrow airport." and "Celia Marsh, 42, suffered a fatal anaphylactic reaction after eating a 'super-veg rainbow flatbread' during a family meal at a Pret A Manger"

[@TestGearJunkie.]

@@chris107892 Those were sad and unfortunate incidents, but if I were allergic to something that might be in my food, you can be sure I wouldn't eat anything from a place like that. I very rarely eat out, I prefer to know exactly what's in my food, so I mostly eat at home.

[@philipsmith9688]

It’s like somebody putting peanut butter on for somebody with a peanut allergy, you have no idea if they will come out alive or what effect it would have

[@bazzacuda_]

OK, it wasn't the perfect example, but we get the sentiment.

[@TestGearJunkie.]

@@philipsmith9688 I've not got an allergy, as far as I'm aware, but peanut butter is one of the few things that can make me puke purely by the smell, I don't have to actually taste it 🤮

[@johnhodkinson2063]

Agree that it is not your role to report these matters to the police. The people involved should be doing that with their first hand knowledge of the facts

[@Pystro]

I agree too. The only thing Ashley could do is advise the people sending these videos _that_ these things can be reported to the police and _how_ one would proceed doing that. Since he is dealing with these videos on a regular basis (and possibly even recording some of them), he might have enough experience to put together everything he knows in a few paragraphs in some text document (or even web page) and just send that to everyone who sends in illegal driving behavior.

[@PedroConejo1939]

If the accused driver concerned chooses to go to court rather than take an FPN, then the witness to the events is the one who will need to be called. A second-, third-, etc-hand witness cannot do that. So far as I know, Operation Snap-type websites require the reporter be the person who witnessed the events.

[@bigted1347]

If you have evidence of a different crime you are saying you would not report it to the Police? How is this any different to reporting an assault or shoplifting or even something worse ?

[@PedroConejo1939]

@@bigted1347 Non sequitur.

[@bigted1347]

@@PedroConejo1939 of course it does

[@rpcamera]

Ashley I agree you shouldn't show the company. What you are doing is the correct action.

[@chunkyrabbit1032]

Also to add on in ashley's defense, the company can't control how their drivers drive so it would be unfair to punish the entire company or ruin their business because of one driver having a tantrum

[@saginata]

​@@chunkyrabbit1032 The company can choose who drives for them and can choose how they handle complaints. Maybe there's no way for them to know who they were employing initially, but when they are made aware of the issue and refuse to take action they become complicit.

[@martinwebb1681]

@@saginata ... Easier said than done, many companies struggle to find HGV drivers to employ. Sadly in such times bad drivers sometimes become the only option.

[@johncunnane1582]

Sensible choice to blur the identities. Driver might not even be working for the company any more, so why punish the company? Again, sensible choice.

[@MementoMori-xx5qo]

Well, the plumbers from the last video ended up making fake reviews, and pretty much replied to anyone leaving a negative review alluding to the fact they had no right to! If they had handled it properly, like this company did, they wouldn’t have had a problem

[@Slaeowulf]

As a current and former director, I would jump on this. I would issue an immediate apology. I would seek the facts and meet with the driver. After getting the facts I would consult my fellow directors and management team and, if appropriate, dismiss the driver. There is no excuse for poor directorship.

[@ArodWinterbornSteed]

Ruination of the business might be a pretty good deterrent to others in the future. These drivers are representatives of the business, if the business advertises with livery on their vehicles then they have to accept the reaction of the public.

[@dbracer]

Agreed about the person who drove poorly no longer working for the company - these videos are essentially eternal and dumping on a company ten years after the incident could easily happen, because people don't pay attention to response videos like this, or to comments, even pinned ones.

[@davidedwards1786]

every driver employed direct or not is the face of that said company

[@hypergolic8468]

If a 140,000 subscribers can go on the roads every day, and think how to make driving better with our actions, then many, many more people will come home alive and uninjured after a pleasant drive home. Thanks Ashley! Great approach to the video too.

[@ibs5080]

Another lesson to be learned from these videos, for all of us: Be on your best behaviour on the roads at all times. Mainly of course for the safety aspect. But also because many road users run dash cams nowadays, so it's not just a matter of whether or not the police are around. If you take pride in your driving, then the "best behaviour" part should come quite naturally anyway. Especially to those of us subscribed to Ashley's channel, right? 😊

[@kenbrown2808]

of course, and today's bad drivers seem to be Californians, here. one in a motorhome, who seemed to be lost. starting at 10 MPH, then crossing two lanes to the center turn lane, and then after I'd pulled off and stopped to do a phone thing, was carrying on in the same direction. then a bit further on, one turning left at a light (after it went red) from a position I'm not sure how they got into.

[@gordon861]

When I got a dashcam my own driving tamed a fair bit because I knew if anything did happen, there is going to be footage to nick me too. Still not perfect, often ride too quickly, but a lot less likely to go after someone now.

[@PedroConejo1939]

I watch a channel called UK Dash Cameras and repeatedly commenters make the statement that fitting a dashcam turns you into an idiot driver. Maybe in some instances that is true (doing it for the footage), but I have found quite the opposite to be the case. I very rarely submit footage because my own driving doesn't meet my standards.

[@ibs5080]

@@kenbrown2808 I know you get many Californians in OR. Both as tourists as well as ones that moved to OR, especially around the Portland area. Similarly for Seattle WA.

[@ibs5080]

@@PedroConejo1939 Ah yes I also watch that channel and I've also noticed those comments. But like you, I find that having my own dash cam has made me more aware of my own driving. I often think "What would Ashley and all the subscribers think if they watched my footage". Plus my dash cam displays speed, as well as G forces actually when viewed using it's own app. I will occassionally review my own footage and notice things I was doing that I may not have been aware of at the time. Plus I pick up on details I might not have noticed at the time. There again, it's also satisfying to see where I've handled a situation well or anticipated a scenerio in advance and made it into a so called "non-event". It's also satisfying to see where I've slowed down to a lower limit without braking and my displayed GPS speed is exactly as per the limit just as I reach the sign.

[@McGubbins42]

Honestly I can understand the company's position. They may not respond to a call about one of their drivers but when presented with the evidence, they've taken immediate decisive action.

[@glenpywell8769]

You're trying to educate drivers, not to villify people. I think you're doing the right thing for sure.

[@PauldeVrieze]

For the company change in reaction, one aspect is that the person answering the phone is often not in a leadership position. They might also get semi-regular whining complaints. Not beautiful, but explainable.

[@chrisxp8786]

Have to agree with this. The company that has responded in the end is quite small and from nearby where i grew up. Very few people answering phones at these places are in a position to deal with something like this well initially, and probably still find the internet a scary unknown and then can't see the bigger picture. I'd give more credit for sorting it in the end than criticism for initial response.

[@33andy33gmail]

They might have assumes Ashley was massively exaggerating and have been dismissive ... and then be shocked when they saw the actual footage

[@jeremypnet]

@@33andy33gmailthey might even have assumed it was a wind up.

[@picklestheswift]

I completely agree with you, and your actions are sensible. Thanks for helping make our roads safer

[@lemonmeringuepie3000]

Your stance is perfect. I'm a lorry driver, been triggered too many times, but only resorting to reprimanding with a few blasts on the horn or some serious finger wagging & cussing - I eventually learned to keep the red mist at bay, there's idiots out there, they drive among us, life's too short... I work in a company with 150 other drivers and we subcontract for another business, their Co. name emblazoned across our vehicles. The damage one self centred driver could do to us all doesn't bear thinking about. At the end of the day, i hope that the fired driver will become a better driver, an expensive lesson. From Buckleys POV , my company (all transport firms) receive many calls from disgruntled motorists and many chancers looking to make a quick buck, possibly their reason for initially ignoring U. Doing my Smiths Advanced HGV Driver refresher training tonight! Keep safe. Keep doing great work Ashley 👍

[@gordon861]

These companies can ignore phone calls as much as they like, but once someone (especially a driving instructor) sends them footage then they have no excuse.

[@lemonmeringuepie3000]

@gordon861 my employers take those calls and investigate. They check dashcam and question drivers, but more often than not, it's often the case of a bee in someone's bonnet. But yes a bad attitude in this case

[@gaz7560]

I think you are doing it in the right way, reporting to the DVSA is always the best way to go

[@AtomicShrimp]

I think your careful and thoughtful handling of this matter is part of the same attitude of care and attention that you apply to your driving and instil in your students and hopefully your audience. It's a serious matter and you've taken it seriously. It doesn't need a load of hotheaded Internet vigilantes pursuing it. In fact if you think about it, hotheaded vengeance was the lorry driver's problem in the first place. We just need less of that.

[@ashley_neal]

Absolutely!

[@aidanfell4297]

A wild Atomic Shrimp has appeared. Pleased to know that you are a fellow viewer of this channel.

[@auser127]

@@ashley_neal The company's should be named, simply due to the way they responded to you. Hanging up the phone on a safety issue this big, shows this is not just a rogue driver, the safety issue goes deeper. and the company as a whole is not taking safety seriously.

[@LordAvillius]

Good shout reporting it to DVSA. Ashley trying to keep us safe, one step at a time. ❤

[@kylemenzies4447]

You are a bastion of common sense when it comes to these difficult decisions. Thank you for all you do for road safety. You genuinely inspire me to be a safer driver.

[@JamesWragg-xn6uj]

Ashley Neal, you are a really good Driving Instructor, not just giving education to pupils in your car, but to us all that watch your videos, i am so happy to have found you 6 years ago, plus you deserve more subscribers

[@braindamagedwarvet...]

I got my HGV back in the 70s and back then we were known as the knights of the road... There are still some amazing truckers out there, true to the core But they are becoming fewer and further between 😢

[@dah4527]

It's a shame that so many companies have so little sense of decency that they need a media nudge to do the right thing. I see it daily in The Guardian - a call from The Guardian magically makes them spring into action after months of denial and prevarication. I also liked your explanation of the blurring - yes, punish the one bad driver and not the company. That makes perfect sense.

[@doingstuffandfilmingit]

I remember some time ago a lorry driver doing something similar when driving for a large lorry firm, they didn't sack him and instead sent him on a driver improvement course instead. They took the view that if they sacked him with such a shortage of lorry drivers he would just walk straight into another job, probably within a day and nothing would be learnt from it. Instead they went down the education route and hopefully made the roads safer for everyone. I thought it was a pretty reasonable decision to make. Although I do think the incident being shown on BBC news may have influenced them somewhat too.

[@almostanengineer]

I feel like that’s a reasonable response

[@Dudleymiddleton]

I think basically if you are a bad driver it will catch up with you, and companies will become more stringent with hiring drivers as a result of the internet social media open-ness of exposing everything. Times are hard these days and you have to drive to survive. Thank you for sharing, Ashley.

[@g7dmo]

Thank you for an informative update. The work done by yourself, Chris Martin, black belt barrister ét al really do improve the quality of what’s available as resources to learn from.

[@g7dmo]

@@HarryBarryGary Chris Martin EMS

[@Christian-ve1wi]

Great stuff this is the only channel that I follow that has any dashcam related footage because unlike everyone else you're trying to improve road safety by educating others and promoting higher standards of driving and giving people the tools to do so. So much dashcam footage is just outrage of others but those cammers aren't reflecting that same outrage at themselves and their poor standards. You can't have your cake and eat it. Thanks Ashley for the update the HGV industry is a precarious place I think alot of companies are struggling to keep drivers due to work conditions not exactly being amazing, facilities are usualy in a terrible state and much more, so I think you're approach now is brilliant, companies do need to take these things really seriously both drivers could of easily caused something major and it was more luck than anything else as to why there wasnt a more serious incident. As to the driver loosing I job I really hope he can learn from this perhaps there's an issue thats been brewing for a while, I dont drive lorries but we must appreciate that it's not an easy job any one of us who comments must atleast reflect upon that issue too..

[@em0_tion]

I admire you for being so mature and level-headed about these situations, as per usual. 🙏👏

[@jimmylomas15]

Huge admiration for the way you've handled the situation. These type of HGV drivers pose a serious risk to the public, however one bad apple should not spoil the bunch providing companies act accordingly when an incident is reported. Thank you for all the time and effort you put into this great channel.

[@R04drunner1]

100% support your approach on this, Ashley. Very sensible. I too have read about "Cancel" culture where self-righteous people "pile on" and try to destroy a company for what can turn out to be a misunderstanding, or a minor issue, or something offensive done by an employee (we've all had off days) who subsequently gets disciplined. It's massively unjust for innocent parties to get punished for the sins of others. I applaud your decision to reach out to the companies concerned, so they can take appropriate action. Do remember that companies are staffed by people, some of whom can get defensive when put on the spot. It sounds like that is what happened on your first call, but later somebody more senior found out and took appropriate steps to correct the situation. Whichvis another good result for your channel!

[@Non-Stick_Pan]

Great update Ashley, all I would say is that your initial correspondence to the company may never have found its way past an administrator and not to people in the company who actually care.

[@gavinminion8515]

Totally agree with you blurring the truck - in this case. But I am also glad you reported this to the DVSA. Your video yesterday gave the impression there was nothing which could be done, but the initial reaction of the companies involved (putting the phone down on you) indicated this was likely to happen again and the consequences of this could have been so serious that, in my mind, it could not be ignored. Plus, I've been bullied by a truck before (For driving at the speed limit through a roadworks funnily enough). It is scary as hell. "when love is gone - There's always justice. And when justice is gone - There's always force. And when force is gone - There's always..." The internet - Sorry Laurie Anderson.

[@volkswagonaudiuk]

You make a massive difference with driver safety, your videos have made me a better driver full stop, please keep up the good work on keeping all our road users safe Ashley

[@Mesofs9]

I think you are handling these situations with a lot of integrity Cheers from the Netherlands!

[@ILoveMyMalinois]

As usual you show yourself to be a thoughtful and considerate person. Kudos to you my friend.

[@gazwiddow]

I have made errors at well over 60 years and 10 tears has a ADI gladly nobody was hurt and I have learnt to not let it happen again I also add, none of my errors was intentional was more a case of Two Wrongs dont make it right. Keep up the good work nice to watch and listen.

[@JanneBernards]

These weren't errors though. They were deliberate actions. And they got lucky no one was hurt as a consequence of them. This isn't any different than firing a gun randomly in a grocery store to scare/punish a person you just had an argument with.

[@andyr.6126]

Very well said Ashley. You take a very pragmatic and rational approach and reflect the values you give in your driving videos: that keeping calm and taking the correct action after reflection is the way to get the best results.

[@BangaBuseslad]

Excellent video as always Ashley 👍

[@leeholden8658]

100% behind you on this 👍🏻

[@ibs5080]

I hope as a result of both these videos, both companies instill the importance of safe driving practices to all their drivers. If that part at least happens, these two videos will have served the useful purpose of making our roads that much safer. Indeed maybe other trucking companies will also deliver a safety message to their drivers if they see these videos.

[@ChrispyNut]

I'm comforted to hear that you are grappling with this conundrum of blurring vs exposing. If only there was some kind of regulator/authority in the country to whom people could submit such "evidence" to and could be trusted to ensure appropriate action was taken. I'm such a Utopianist!

[@Thomas-sz8mk]

Great video Ash and fully agree with your decision to use the blurring. I'm interested in the extra content, I'll definitely be looking into it. Keep up the good work and thank you for making me a better driver 👍

[@madmick9205]

The way people behave from their armchairs in today's society, whilst on line is frankly shocking. I think you are being mindful. Something I respect. So agree totally.

[@LeftCoastStephen]

Completely agree with your actions on this. As a young worker I got a company vehicle (not an HGV) and I got a sincere promise that I would not like my managers response if he were to get a complaint on my driving. Later when I moved into management I would have the same conversation with employees getting a company vehicle, whether it had company logo or not. I find the companies responses completely incomprehensible. The first may be the worst as they really don’t care much about public safety or their reputation. The second did in the end, do the right thing but it took too long. Thanks from Canada for all the great teaching moments. Even though I’ve had my license 50+ years, I’m learning from all of them

[@paultaylor7082]

Well measured response, Ashley. I used to run a small company, we never had problems like this, but with the plethora of dash cams, perhaps people should be a lot more careful in the way they drive? Currently, now retired and doing a lot less mileage, I still see examples of appalling driving that make me wince.

[@vx4716]

Good on you Ashley , thanks for sharing with us as always, totally agree with your opinions 🙏

[@grahamnutt8958]

I totally "get" this update and its 💯 appreciated, Ashley. I could hazard a guess as to the identity of whom you had private contact with but won't name the person out of respect. However - his/her input is obviously worthy of your time and I support both of your Educational inputs. Stay safe out there 👍

[@clintlee6509]

Thanks for what you are doing

[@sassyboofle6983]

Thank you for the update and all the comments you gave , I do trust your process . In reality when I have said give this to police it’s really for anyone having suffered this and maybe need encouragement . You I believe do really what is needed , and understand the why how and what . 👍keep showing us how to improve .

[@brantnuttall]

Great response. Well said! Just a shame that the company needed to be bullied by people before responding.

[@SpikeP100]

Thanks for your efforts Ashley. I passed 4 years ago and feel like drivers around me are getting worse and it winds me right up. Its watching your videos and advice which helps me both calm down and continue to try and better my driving instead of dropping to those standards. Keep up the amazing work. Million times better than the DVSA for everything on the roads - Paul

[@ashley_neal]

Thanks for your kind words and your support 👊

[@JoannaHammond]

I think if a company continues to ignore the issue after a decent amount of time naming them is no longer an issue.

[@paul8161]

Thanks for the update and thanks for explaining your reasoning to how and why you you do thing's on on your channel, much appreciated..it was a good result in at least it's one less wally behind the wheel in a 40 tonne killing machine .

[@Ian-lx9st]

Ashley, thanks for providing a fantastic channel, your videos are very interesting and certainly very educational, as a car driver of 43 years 🤫I have picked up some great tips and have improved my driving skills and behaviour... Never give up! I certainly believe that using social media or You Tube to judge and try offenders/poor drivers, is a potentially dangerous route to take, however we all have a duty of care towards vulnerable parties who use, cross or drive on Public Highways. As owners of footage and first hand witnesses we are certainly, in the best position to report matters to the companies, the DVSA and the police directly, or a to local police force online via Op Snap. Fully agree with your approach and on "Lorry Reprimand". By the way Ashley ever thought of starting a business, providing people to educate and inform our next generations of drivers in school or college settings.

[@michaelmiller641]

And a massive thanks to you too Ashley

[@David_Trowbridge]

Good stuff, you're so chill when you speak, could listen to you for hours lol

[@gismo300369]

As a professional driver I totally agree with the outcome Thanks Ashley always love your chanel and have learn things from your videos Every day is a learning day

[@craigevans6156]

I just watched the original video and was appalled at these incidents. Well done for the way you have handles this issue.

[@dennisnash8435]

The driver is responsible for his actions. Its his fault he lost his job. Better than someone losing their life. The company only responded because they were outed (As you said). The driver needs to go in front of the traffic commissioner. HGV drivers licence are not a God given right. He has the power to investigate and take action. I think this driver needs to sit his test again as a minimal requirement after the way he drove that truck.

[@sidwills]

Absolutely correct choice to blur the details. I have no issue with one driver losing their job and/or facing prosecution due to their actions as an individual, but it's another thing to ruin or discredit a company based on the actions of one employee.

[@Ndswpwlc]

Top work Ashley.

[@haz_raf]

Good to see proper justice for things like this. These drivers should be on the road. Most people are scared to drive next to lorries, even when lorries driving following the Highway Code.

[@PedroConejo1939]

Thank you for the update. Dorset Snap also have the same stipulations that you mention, which is why on other channels, I ask if the footage went to the police _before_ being sent to the compilation channel. I have in the past emailed the transport manager of one company (not the plumber van one) and referred them to a video that Ashley has uploaded. It was a while ago and I can't remember the outcome. I will however refrain from that in future in the light of this and previous comments from Ash.

[@ibs5080]

Well that was a great talk Ashley and very balanced with consideration to all sides. Interesting there was a police siren right at the end just as you said "I'll see you all soon ". 😊

[@Adventurer_Dave]

Hi Ash With regards the company that put the phone down on you. It is very possible that the person you spoke to did not fully understand the reason for your call, and more importantly the implications of their actions. However they have now taken on board your message and as a result taken appropriate action. Your channel is all about education, and in this instance the company concerned has reviewed their initial action, and taken appropriate action. It is an indication that they have been educated, and their policies and practices are more robust.

[@jezwilde2376]

Thanks Ashley for the evenest of even-handed responses. Well thought out trying to strike a balance. It is unfortunate that someone lost their job but that deliberate choice of action far outweighs their loss and it was the right decision. And as you say they shouldn't hold that vocational licence and I hope the traffic commissioner sees fit to strip them of it. As with all these incidents (and other road rage videos) it is out of control egos wreaking havoc. Actually that accounts for an awful lot of the woes in this world.

[@FergalByrne]

You do you, always a good idea to limit the collateral damage to entirely innocent people. We’re here for your wisdom so trust in that, we clearly do.

[@Brianmac007]

That was an incredibly un nerving video with the lorry drivers behaviour but one that needs and must be highlighted every single time. As stated by yourself Ash that could have led to the driver panicking and causing a fatal accident. So so scary to watch i cant imagine how the driver of the vehicles felt. Good job here mate, well explained also

[@goodguykonrad3701]

You are absolutely doing the right thing in not revealing company details. People can't be trusted to not act impulsively and excessively, and anyone asking you to reveal the company details is just incredibly immature

[@stever456]

Funny isn’t it, I can be a bit naughty on the roads but when I watch these I really understand Ashley and it’s slowly changing my behaviours. It’s not easy but Ashley makes perfect sense I don’t think I could argue my case with any of them. Like here, we want the lorry’s drivers hung but then this video it all makes perfect sense and more likely to help and train us and then to become better drivers which leads to less accidents. In fact I’m going to mention Ashley to my company as I feel you would be able to make some amazing training videos. 👍

[@Estarlio]

I think it's very respectful of you to have a mind to the wider impact this has on tens or hundreds of people's jobs. There's a difference, to my mind, between producing educational content and reporting something to the police. You can always do the latter, after producing the former, (and you don't have to publish the fact you've done so to KZbin,) but it's hard to do the former after doing the latter and to simultaneously remain unbiased in education matters.

[@LukeGuitarSmith]

Hi Ashley, thanks for the great content you provide us with as well as the tips pf becoming better drivers. Since watching your videos, I believe I have been able to take on board some your pointers and become a better amd safer driver overall. And just a bit of feedback regarding your knee tip in a previous video, it does work in vans, I tried it today

[@Hill_Walker]

Worth noting, the DVSA can and will most likely give pretty huge fines to the drivers and businesses. There's reasons for these huge fines, mainly being HGVs are incredibly dangerous. They're 100% the correct authority to report these clips to, given you were not a direct witness to the events.

[@britlion]

Very well said, Ash. You do good work teaching people, and discussing mistakes and problems. And above all teaching patience, awareness and empathy with people. Did you mean to say the name of the transport company when you said "I'll read the email" ? After blurring out the company name and all...

[@ashley_neal]

They were happy with updating my viewers so fair play to them.

[@nigelcox1451]

The first response of putting the phone down, could have been by a junior employee, or middle manager, thinking they were doing the right thing, or perhaps not knowing what to do. Later, a senior person has made a better decision, although I would have hoped they'd have explained that. I have over the years had a few occasions to complain about lorry drivers' behaviour, and each time, except the last, been met with genuine concern, and immediate action by the companies. One occasion, I actually phoned one of those numbers on the back, "how's my driving". They go to a call centre, UK, who handle several companies, but as I was following the truck, and giving a running commentary of its behaviour, the call handler was typing it all live. Great fun. I got a call from the transport manager next day, thanking me, and explaining their remedial actions. There are good guys out there.

[@dmac2573]

Agree with your approach. Whenever I have contacted companies with dash cam footage, they have taken appropriate action even if this has resulted in dismissal. The companies shouldn't be punished for individual behaviour of their employees.

[@timothyjohnston4083]

First of all, thanks for the update. I do agree that it is (a) not your place to report this and similar incidents to the police; and (b) appropriate to hide the company's name. A company cannot control how their employees behave. That being said, however, *they* can discipline employees for acting in a manner which harms the company's reputation. An employee has a obligation to be loyal to the company and to not harm the company's reputation simply by the fact they are employed by said company. An employee, in essence, is an ambassador for the company -- their behaviour reflects well or poorly (as in this case) on the company and the company's policies and training. This driver acted in a dangerous and repugnant manner *while on duty; while driving a company vehicle* thereby putting their employer's reputation at risk (not to minimise the risk to other road users). The company has every right to discipline them however they see fit (while respecting whatever laws and/or collective agreements (union rules) may apply). This company did, in the end, do the right thing. However, I do agree with you, Ashley, that it is a shame the company reacted the way they did originally. Perhaps it was the fact that the company's identity had been found out (through viewers' comments, etc.). Perhaps some viewers even took it upon themselves to contact the company to complain. Whatever their reason, I hope they have learned that it is not wise to ignore the power of the Internet or of the 140,000+ followers of Ashley Neal's KZbin channel. I also hope that the driver learns a lesson as well and that they take steps to improve their driving skills. We can all be grateful that no one was injured and no property was damaged. And thanks to you, people are being made aware, and, with any luck, will come away having learned something that will prevent a repeat.

[@ben_9134]

Now that you've explained a bit more about why you blurred the company logos, I've changed my mind and agree that it's probably the right decision.

[@Birkguitars]

Interesting update. On balance I think you are right with your approach. In the same way that we don't necessarily know the full context of the driving incident we don't know the company's position. The person you speak to may be having an off day. But at least you are giving them the chance to do the right thing at the right time. If as seems to have been the case here they only address the issue when their feet are to the fire we can acknowledge that they have responded eventually and then also ask the pointed question as to why it took so long. Maybe we can hope that the proliferation of dash cam evidence will hammer home the message that if someone comes to you and says "I have evidence of poor driving from one of your employees" companies will get it right first time even if that is only to avoid the situation this one ended up in.

[@TheCloudWalking]

Good outcome and good job Buckley Transport. Hope that driver is prosecuted for weaponizing their vehicle.

[@eclecticautomotive9141]

Balanced and fair Ashley, you’re taking the right approach

[@andyglawe7804]

I had an incident many years ago where as a cyclist I was close passed by a large quarry lorry. I carry a rear facing camera. Normally I do not report this but on this occassion I had such a close pass (I had to brake very hard to avoid being crushed) that I took note of the company and reported it to the company via email, evidencing it with video. The response I got was we will investigate. A week or so later I got an email. The company had suspended the driver and put them on a course to improve their standard of driving which I thought was a good result. The driver didn't lose his job and I didn't lose my life 🤔

[@smilerbob]

Please keep blurring the names and companies involved despite their initial dismissive response. You are taking the correct action by reporting the actions to the appropriate authorities to take whatever action they deem appropriate. As you know with a couple of clips I have sent to you I have spoken to the company involved (not the companies in this or your previous video) and had resolution with them. Whether or not "We will speak with the driver" is a standard response of doing nothing or they will in fact speak with the driver I will never know but I hope it is the latter and education is sometimes better than punishment. As you say, a fine line and difficult to know which side of the line to be but you are keeping the correct side publicly and doing the right thing behind the scenes. Hopefully now the second company has been educated into open dialogue Keep up the good work

[@U2QuoZepplin]

I think I need to view these clips again to fully understand the rights and wrongs and circumstances. Thanks Ashley.

[@Patient_Lion_BS]

Brilliant choice, completely agree with your decision 👍 You could very easily create the downfall of a company/business, especially in today's 'cancel culture' world. And like you said, you could be putting many people out of jobs, such as other lorry drivers who have never committed such an act and who could be as good as gold, just like our local van driver John 😊 It's a bit like im school, when one kid misbehaves in class, and the teacher decides to keep everyone behind as a punishment. Makes no sense and is extremely unfair. Now imagine coming home from work, and telling your family you've been sacked because your classmate wasnt behaving, i.e one lorry driver screwing over the rest. Thank you for your mature and humanistic approach ❤

[@ekhaat]

Thank you for your good work

[@avonacolyte]

Great news that the second guy lost his job! Many will probably agree that you shouldn't hold the company to account for one employee, some (including me) will disagree; but at least in this case they haven't ignored it

[@Chris-zh3lc]

Great news?! One more person on the dole , how's that great? Whilst I don't condone his actions we don't know what he was going through at the time. Re training and a formal written warning would of been a fair outcome. Ashley you try to portray yourself as this do gooder fair person type, yet you have cost this man his job for a few clicks and cash in your pocket.

[@avonacolyte]

@@Chris-zh3lc Of course it's great news. A dangerous, presumably emotionally unstable driver is no longer behind the wheel of an HGV, hopefully never to be again. That's a great result for everyone who uses the roads. Now he can be supported through whatever he's going through without the option of killing a whole family using his vehicle as a lethal weapon, and good luck to him.

[@Chris-zh3lc]

@avonacolyte didn't kill anyone, reacted in anger to a split second decision. Could be re trained and recieve a final written warning for conduct , most likely go on to never be so stupid again but na let's just ban him, make him unemployed, starve his wife and kids, long as your happy and Ashley makes few quid it's good times. Let's all pile on the bloke quick!!

[@colinprice9855]

Totally agree I have also made similar decisions based on the response of the company concerned.

[@JakobusVdL]

Nice work Ashley. Its the drivers who are putting their jobs at risk but their actions. They are also putting others lives and property at risk. I think most of us follow your channel to learn how to use the roads more safely, and understand that you're not the justice system, or the employement law system. Keep doing what you're doing - thanks

[@marinusdekker6707]

Ashley, I personally think you did well not to show the company names yourself, because 1 bad apple does not mean that the whole company and the other drivers are like that. There are always those keyboard warriors who think they know better, but they should also look at it from the other side, if there is a rotten apple working at their company, then you cannot blame everyone.

[@mattwoodford1820]

I totally get the reasons. It is unfortunate that there is the classic burning pitchfork reaction when something like this happens but there is a proper course of action. The priority should be prevention and education. Vengeance is toxic and often driven by a combination of not understanding the full picture and/or being triggered by the event. Punitive measures are down to the specific authorities to manage and not a free-for-all to act in retribution how they see fit based on the slice of information the individual has. I think you've taken the best course of action that aligns with the ethos of your channel. The actions of an individual do not always represent company policy and while the companies should be willing to take on complaints about driving, it could be that they are overwhelmed, or were at the time you called. There may also be issues with some of these vengeance inducing opinionated dashcam channels that primarily serve to rile people up rather than educate on picking up on the mistakes as I can see the disproportional negativity generated from such clips. I've always seen the main purpose of these videos is to be able to remain calm and find the fix as I believe the "remaining calm" part is key to maintaining a safe driving environment as anger increases the likelihood of making more poor decisions

[@chilleddriving1455]

I tried reporting something to the DVSA once but was told they didn't care about driving.

[@flipper2392]

Credit for blurring the names, many in the industry will recognise the livery anyway, it may be an idea to contact the companies for a response before posting the ciips, the drivers could possibly be agency staff and only there for a day. The last company I worked for ran 15 wagons, he said hardly a week passed without him receiving a complaint about drivers, all round cameras proved them all wrong, anyone claiming for damage , no matter how petty,was told to go through insurance.

[@WintonMc]

I think you've done the right thing. Company #1 has recognised the 'special quality' of their driver and acted appropriately. Company #2 has not. I still do not think that naming and shaming that company at this point would be appropriate, especially as DVSA has been informed and can now take action which could potentially have consequences for the driver involved, without harming others in that company. I would have thought that they would pro-actively want to be seen to be acting responsibly to protect their reputation, but it could be that they simply don't recognise the size of your following and the nobility of this channels intentions. Therefore maybe the best course of action is to draw to their attention how Company#1 has acted, and point out that improving road safety is the sole aim of this channel, not harming businesses who have hired lesser drivers. If you get another clip about the same company, it will be interesting to see how they react the second time.

[@bramelsheretan]

Excellent on many aspects. 1, it is your channel, you make the rules and have to abide by KZbin rules. 2, I certainly wouldn't expect you to contact the police, it should be down to the viewer/owner of the footage. 3, I / we learn from your comments and analysis and that is why I watch, listen and replay the videos. If I want dashcam drama, I watch others, however I only subscribe to you and one other who offers comments on what he sees on the road. 4, keep up the good work ❤

[@atomicironvanguard]

I think you're right in the way you're going about things, everyone seems to want to grab their pitchfork and go on a witch hunt without a second thought.

[@AUaudits]

I agree with Ashley and am doing same in my case, re collision on Monday, until Police, dvsa & companies done their investigations.

[@mercerthechimp9218]

Hi Ash. I think you've made the right decision RE blurring and not being the one to name and shame, regardless of whether others then choose to do so. It shows that the reason behind your videos is for us to learn & improve, not to target the people who feature. The internet can be a horrible place and it's good that you are not contributing towards this. Regarding the company who have taken action against their driver... just playing devil's advocate here, is it possible that the person you spoke to was not the decision maker / relevant person to make decisions related to this, and it took some time for the problem to be highlighted to the correct people, who then took the appropriate action? Just a thought. Thanks for another insightful video though.

[@glengrimsdale4]

Shame we can’t give more than one thumbs up 👍🏼 for your video. I would put more 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼for such a sensible response, so that it floated on the top of the KZbin algorithm for more people to see. Keep up the good work Ashley👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@Ukmartian1701]

I quite agree with everything you have said in this video, both lorry drivers were obviously in the wrong, it is extremely scary when faced with a 40 ton truck cutting you up, I know that from experience. But you have to have to protect your own reputation as well, ref the plumber video. Keep up the good work your channel highlights driving fails and teaches us all what to lookout for and how to respond..

[@jonhigginson4096]

I’m in complete agreement with your take on this Ashley, just not sure I’d have been so measured though in the first instance. Never stop learning and never stop learning to change my attitude towards others I share the Road with thanks to your channel. Ta la.