Avoiding low clearance accidents is crucial for the safety of both yourself and your vehicle. These accidents typically occur when a vehicle with a height that exceeds the clearance of an obstacle attempts to pass under it. Remember that low clearance accidents can result in significant damage to your vehicle and may pose safety risks. By taking these precautions and being mindful of your vehicle's height, you can reduce the chances of encountering such accidents. If you are unsure about the clearance of a specific area, it's always better to err on the side of caution and seek an alternative route.
Here are some tips to help you avoid low clearance accidents:
1. Do not solely rely on GPS systems as they are mainly designed for cars and will not recognize a bridge that may be too low for a transport truck.
2. Plan your route ahead of time to make sure you are on a truck route. This will also ensure there will be no low bridges or other obstacles on your route.
3. Know your trucks height! Most trucks are 13’6” high and you will know from road signs if your truck is too high for the pass through.
4. Be aware of road surfaces because snow and ice can increase the height of your truck.
5. If you're unsure about the clearance of a particular structure, stay in the right lane as low clearance obstacles are often in the left lane due to curvature of the road.
6. Watch for clearance signs as these typically posted well in advance of a low-clearance structure, such as bridges or tunnels.
By following these guidelines and remaining vigilant while driving your truck, you can reduce the risk of low clearance accidents and keep yourself and others safe on the road.
