Understanding Bridge Heights in the UK

faqs -> safety

There are a wide variety of bridge heights in the UK and whilst most motorways and dual carriageways are likely to be suitable for most double deck trailers, many other roads may not.

According to the 2nd Issue of the Prevention of Strikes on Bridges over Highways protocol, the standard minimum clearance to be provided over every part of the carriageway of a public highway is 16’6” (5.03m). All bridges with headroom less than this value should be signed to identify the maximum height of a vehicle which can safely pass on the carriageway under the bridge without impacting on it.

Further detail can be found in the links below.