AI-powered bridge strike prevention system to be unveiled

A new AI-powered warning system designed to stop lorries hitting low bridges will be unveiled at the FORS annual conference in Birmingham next month. Durite says its low bridge detection kit could cut down on the 1800 bridge strike incidents that happen every year. As well as the dangers involved, strikes often leave operators facing liability for repairs, road closures and rail delays.

The system uses smart cameras to spot and warn drivers of low bridges up to 200 metres away, while also reading and interpreting safety height signs. Backed by a 10Hz GPS and the UK low bridge database, it gives accurate, location-based alerts. By factoring in trailer and load heights, warnings are shown on a connected R-Watch display that should enable drivers to reroute in time.

Earlier this year, Network Rail urged drivers to "know the height of their vehicles" after a Birmingham bridge was hit three times in a week, once causing debris to hit a pedestrian.

The FORS event takes place at the ICC on 23 October.