Here are some tips for drivers to prevent this type of damage:

• When you call your customer for directions to their facility, keep in mind that the person giving you directions drives there every day in a car. They may not realize that the bridges and overpasses you will encounter might not be high enough for your truck. Specifically ask if the directions they provided are on a truck route and if there are any low clearances. Regardless of the information you receive, proceed with caution, as you are the one responsible for any damage caused.
• Overhead clearances are often posted in advance of most underpasses and tunnels, but be aware that new asphalt may have been laid on the road, reducing clearance by a couple of inches. Stay alert for road construction near underpasses, bridges, and tunnels.
• Just because other trucks are passing through doesn't mean your truck will fit under the bridge, tunnel, etc.
• If a marked or unmarked overpass looks low, slow down immediately, turn on your four-way flashers, and carefully approach the overpass. Stop and check your actual clearance.
• Many bridges and overpasses are not perfectly straight; the sides are often lower than the center. If possible, cross under in the inside lane.
• If you can, check the road elevation on the other side of the bridge. A sharp incline or decline could cause trouble. You may fit under the bridge while entering, but as you exit, the body or trailer could be pushed up into the bridge due to the change in road elevation.
• In winter, snow and ice on the roadway can reduce the clearance enough to cause damage.
• If you find you cannot proceed through a low overhead and traffic is congested around you, it’s better to call the police for assistance in backing out of the situation. Backing against traffic to maneuver could cause an accident.