Low overpass question

All of the above. The average tractor trailer will fit under a 13'6" overpass. If the truck stays on interstates or state highways it is more or less safe. There are exception. But for the most part those routes are the safest.

 

No, They get run into from time to time, The intelligent driver goes around them or finds another way to get o where they are going, There are some who for some reason don't think that sign tells the truth. It is not a good habit to rip the top off of a trailer if you want to stay in this industry very long. I hope this helps!

 

GPS VS. Atlas Both must be up to date.But your best options is to pay attention to the warning signs.It's Not a maybe It's a Fact

 

Today I was running on a frontage road and just as I passed an onramp to get on the freeway, looking to go another 1/4 mile to get a turn around to go the opposite way on the freeway. Just as I came over a hill and was passing the onramp there was a sign noting 13' 3" clearance ahead.

Fortunately I had nobody behind me and came to almost a full on stop on the frontage road and was able to safely get onto the freeway onramp. I was following a trucker specific GPS that had routed me under that low clearance.

Many times local governments choose to put low clearance signs beyond the point of no return. Had I not been able to come to almost a full stop and make that onramp I would have had to back uphill to the onramp on the service road, a dangerous situation. I've seen many low clearance signs that are only posted on the bridge itself without forewarning. For this reason I carry binoculars, which are very handy when waiting at a stop light to check out low clearances ahead.

 

have you checked your settings on your gps. when mine came out of the box. it was set for 12.6 height. i changed it to 13.6. have yet to be steered on a street with lower height.

 

One day in Chicago, I could walk under the low clearance to the consignee on the other side. I could not find streets for driving there. Finally, the local terminal sent a city driver to scout a route bobtailing and lead me in there.

 

If anyone runs Chicago, I have a viaduct clearance PDF file. 1400 locations!

PM me.

Mikeeee

 

When I have to go somewhere in Chicago I've not been to, I call the toll free number listed in the Rand McNally atlas for routing help in Chicago. Very helpful and friendly staff. Be sure to ask about routes both to and from the address, in Chicago the way in is not the way out!