Low Clearance Solutions

[Trooper-D]

I have been trying out various low clearance avoidance tools after witnessing a horrible accident and having a close call myself. Obviously I look out for the signs ahead, but not all bridges are posted and it's no good for planning a route anyway.

So what are the options?


Rand McNally Motor Carrier Road Atlas

Pros - Much more than a low clearance list, with an abundance of useful information.

Cons - Limited to just over 1000 low clearances. Can't use while driving. Costs around $50.

Available at: Amazon.com: Rand McNally 2009 Deluxe Motor Carriers Road Atlas (Rand Mcnally Motor Carriers' Road Atlas Deluxe Edition) (9780528942129): Rand McNally and Company: Books


POI-Factory.com low clearance POI database for GPS

Pros - Free to download. Accurate. Ready to install.

Cons - Limited data, not much more than 300 entries.

Available at: Low Clearance Underpasses | POI Factory


DiscoveryOwners.com low clearance POI database for GPS

Pros - Free to download. Accurate.

Cons - Limited data, approximately 400 entries. Many duplicates across several databases. Only available in text format.

Available at: http://www.discoveryowners.com/cginfolinks.htm


LowClearances.com low clearance POI database for GPS

Pros - Huge database, up to 10 times larger than the others available. Accurate. Regularly updated. Ready to install.

Cons - Costs $20 for annual subscription.

Available at: Low Clearance GPS Data



There are also a few fully integrated GPS systems available, but these are very expensive and I cannot vouch for their accuracy or the number of low clearances in their databases.

Hope this is of use.

 

[Desperado]

i don't know a whole lot but when i started driving for a living I was told every driver has a GOAL GET OUT AND LOOK thats what i recommend to any one if it looks low stop truck and get out and look so you back up traffic if you hit it you surely will and yes I've backed up 3 miles one time with a 53 foot trailer boy i don't miss them lol

 

[guido4475]

I would think it is called common sense, and depth perception.Especially with trucks sitting as high up as they are, it is not all that difficult to sense when a bridge is lower than a truck.I used to run NYC 3 times a week, multiple drops, and never had a meeting with a low bridge, knock on wood.

 

[jimby82]

And here is a timely piece:
Video - Breaking News Videos from CNN.com

Just makes you wonder what the driver was thinking.

 

[inkasnana]

And here is a timely piece:
Video - Breaking News Videos from CNN.com

Just makes you wonder what the driver was thinking.

He was thinking his gps routed him through there so it must be right and all the signs and flashing red lights telling him he was too tall must be wrong. Just a theory.