Southbound closure at Knight Street Bridge in Richmond

While driver error remains a significant factor, industry experts stress that the problem also reflects aging infrastructure and inconsistent signage. The province’s database of bridge and overpass strikes cites several incidents in which clearance signs were missing or inaccurate, or where resurfacing work reduced the vertical clearance available to passing vehicles.

Industry reactions and calls for reform

The British Columbia Trucking Association (BCTA) has urged authorities to adopt a more comprehensive safety approach. The organization argues that technology such as over-height detection systems—using laser or infrared sensors—should be installed at key locations to warn drivers before reaching low overpasses.