With bridge strikes becoming an increasing problem in the UK, we share our advice so that bridge strikes can be prevented. Shop for the Truckmate Bridge Saver directly from the UK manufacturer now.
Driver’s responsibilities
It is the driver’s responsibility to know the height and width of their vehicle, know their route and obey traffic signs.
Before beginning a journey, the following checks should be carried out:
- Checking the load is safe and secure
- Measuring the height and width of the cab, the trailer, its load and equipment
- Ensuring the correct maximum height is displayed in the cab
Drivers must not rely on the information on the headboard as coupler heights can vary. Any discrepancies between the measured height and that shown on the headboard should be reported to the transport manager.
While en route
While driving, it is important to remember that the height of the vehicle can change, for example, adjustment of the fifth wheel, or unloading or loading a trailer. Using an HGV-specific sat nav system will help you to plan routes specific to your vehicle’s height, weight and width and can create a new route if the vehicle’s dimensions change, you are diverted or you face an obstruction.
Pay attention to traffic signs
Road signs will be provided at bridges to show the maximum permitted vehicle height when less than 16’-2” (4.95 metres).
Advanced warning signs
When you’re approaching a bridge, signs might be provided to give you advance warning of the upcoming restriction, allowing you to take an alternative route. However, not all low bridges will have advance warning signs.
Red circle signs
Red circle signs prohibit, meaning if a vehicle is higher than the dimensions shown, you must stop and not pass the sign as you are likely to collide with the bridge on that route.
Red triangle signs
Red triangle signs warn, so if the vehicle is higher than the dimensions shown, you should not pass the sign.
Arch bridges
White lines and ‘goal posts’ on an arch bridge may be provided to indicate the extent of the height limit shown in the sign. These are normally over a three-metre width. Additional ‘goal posts’ might be displayed towards the kerb, showing the lower limits. Make sure your vehicle passes between the correct posts if you deem it safe to do so.
Vehicles with loads wider than three metres (9’-10’) must be extra careful as the maximum height available will be less than the signed limit.
Height conversion chart
|
Feet/inches |
Metres |
|
16’-3” |
4.95 |
|
16’-0” |
4.88 |
|
15’-9” |
4.80 |
|
15’-6” |
4.72 |
|
15’-3” |
4.65 |
|
15’-0” |
4.57 |
|
14’-9” |
4.50 |
|
14’-6” |
4.42 |
|
14’-3” |
4.35 |
|
14’-0” |
4.27 |
|
13’-9” |
4.19 |
|
13’-6” |
4.11 |
|
13-3” |
4.04 |
|
13’-0” |
3.96 |
|
12’-9” |
3.89 |
|
12’-6” |
3.81 |
|
12’-3” |
3.73 |
|
12’-0” |
3.66 |
|
11’-9” |
3.58 |
|
11’-6” |
3.51 |
|
11’-3” |
3.43 |
|
11’-0” |
3.35 |
|
10’-0” |
3.05 |
|
9’-0” |
2.75 |
So remember, know your vehicle height and width, know your route and obey traffic signs. If you do strike a bridge, the advice is to report the bridge strike to the Rail Authority and police immediately. Take a look at this blog post for more information on what to do when you strike a bridge.
Are you looking for a device that does the hard work for you? Take a look at the all-new Truckmate Bridge Saver, specifically designed to protect you against bridge strikes. See the whole Truckmate range here.