Prevention and Mitigation of Bridge and Tunnel Strikes (2025)
Chapter: Summary
SUMMARY
The National Cooperative Highway Research Program’s Project No. 08-139, “Guide for Preventing and Mitigating the Risk of Bridge and Tunnel Strikes by Motor Vehicles,” addresses the growing concern over the safety and integrity of our nation’s infrastructure. This research was prompted by the increasing occurrence of Bridge and Tunnel Strikes (BrTS) which present significant hazards to both the vehicles involved and the structural integrity of bridges and tunnels. Nationally, there are over 15,000 bridge strikes annually, costing millions of dollars in repairs and posing serious safety risks. The pressing need for a comprehensive solution is evident.
The primary objective of this project was to develop a holistic approach to collecting, analyzing, and disseminating BrTS data, introducing existing countermeasures, and formulating effective prevention and mitigation strategies. By leveraging a diverse range of data sources, including state and federal crash data, and employing advanced data analytical techniques, the research team aimed to uncover the underlying causes of BrTS and identify pragmatic mitigation measures.
Key findings from the research highlighted the multifaceted nature of BrTS occurrences, attributed to factors such as aging infrastructure, increased heavy truck traffic, and occasional non-compliance with height and weight regulations. The research underscored the critical importance of accurate and up-to-date bridge and tunnel inventory data, as well as enhanced communication and data sharing among stakeholders involved in infrastructure safety and vehicle regulation.
The culmination of the project resulted in the development of a guidebook designed to assist state Departments of Transportation (DOTs), public safety agencies, and the motor carrier industry in implementing effective BrTS prevention strategies. Recommendations include the establishment of a national clearinghouse for BrTS data, the comprehensive evaluation of existing and potential countermeasures, and the adoption of a risk-based approach to assess and address vulnerabilities. Through its methodical research and actionable recommendations, the NCHRP 08-139 project offers a valuable roadmap for enhancing the safety and resilience of the nation’s transportation infrastructure against the risks posed by BrTS.
The key outcomes of this research are NCHRP Research Report 1132: Bridge and Tunnel Strikes: A Guide for Prevention and Mitigation, BrTS Data Clearinghouse Prototype and Maintenance Roadmap, and Training and Outreach Materials. The contractor’s final report is also included, which provides results and analyses supporting the guidebooks’ contents.
