Yellowhammer Times

The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) has launched a new public awareness campaign to help drivers avoid collisions with low bridges. The initiative, themed "Check Your Height, Know It’s Right," aims to remind drivers to ensure their vehicles can safely pass under bridges on state and local roads.

These incidents, known as bridge hits, not only damage vehicles and infrastructure but also cause delays and pose risks to the public and emergency responders. ALDOT Deputy Director of Operations George Conner emphasized the preventable nature of these accidents: "Bridge strikes are preventable, and it starts with drivers knowing their vehicle height and making sure their loads are secure."

Drivers must be aware of their vehicle's height and adhere to posted bridge heights rather than relying solely on navigation devices or apps. This is particularly important in Alabama for areas like the Wallace and Bankhead Tunnels in Mobile, where over-height vehicles frequently ignore warning signs.

The campaign targets all driver classes, including those operating commercial trucks, leased trucks such as delivery or moving box-type trucks, and recreational vehicles. Data indicates that drivers often overlook vehicle height restrictions during operation. For instance, a typical 26-foot moving truck may range from 11 feet to 13 feet 6 inches in height.

ALDOT is collaborating with other state transportation agencies under the support of The Eastern Transportation Coalition. This partnership includes 19 states and the District of Columbia, aiming to enhance safety and efficiency across travel modes.

Information from this article can be found here.