Bridges, parking garages, car washes and drive throughs are just a few of the low clearance areas you may encounter while driving. This areas may be a hassle if you are in a taller vehicle. Also, cargo on top of vehicles or long antennas can make it difficult to pass under low areas. Use these tips to be able to better navigate these tight spaces.
Low Clearance Areas: Navigating Them
Signs
When a structure has an overhead clearance less than 14 feet, there should be a yellow road sign posted to let drivers know the actual height of the structure. These signs are posted for a reason, and that is to keep drivers safe. Any vehicles that are taller than the height on the sign should not try and pass under these low clearance areas. Instead, they should try and go another way.
Unfortunately, you can not always trust signs to be exact though. For example, a road could have been resurfaced. This could actually lower the height of the clearance. The same can apply to snow and/or ice build up. If you are even slightly concerned about not fitting, so not risk it. If you are doubting the clearance, stop in a safe place and check before going forward.
Pay Attention
It is very likely that there will be other low clearance areas that are not marked. These could include tree branches or power lines. When driving on narrow streets or alleys, be aware of lights, signs, and utility poles. These obstacles could be hazards that are not as obvious. Pay attention and always look where you are going.
Another thing to look out for is that bridges, underpasses and tunnels may have a curvature to them. This would mean that the highest point could be in the middle, with lower points on the side. Keep this in mind and pay attention to these areas before trying to pass under.
Be Proactive
If you want to be proactive about avoiding low clearance areas, resources are available to help. You should check out LowClearances.com. This is a website that has a database of 7000+ low clearance bridges in the US. This database is compatible with many navigation apps and GPS units. Knowing about these tight spaces ahead of time could save you time, money, and possible damage to your vehicle.
Use these tips to be safe in low clearance areas. Hitting the top of your vehicle or cargo on a low clearing could be very dangerous and cause a lot of damage. Remember, when in doubt, double-check before proceeding.