NEW YORK — New York State Police issued nearly 1,000 violations and placed more than 100 commercial vehicles out of service during a major enforcement detail along the New York State Thruway aimed at preventing bridge strikes.
Troop T conducted the targeted enforcement at the end of July as part of the “Check Your Height, Know It’s Right” campaign.
The initiative focused on commercial motor vehicle safety, driver awareness, and preventing over-height trucks from striking bridges and overpasses.
348 Commercial Vehicle Inspections Conducted
During the statewide Thruway detail, Troop T’s Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit conducted 348 commercial vehicle inspections.
Of those inspections, 126 vehicles were immediately placed out of service for safety-related violations.
State Police said a total of 966 violations were issued during the enforcement initiative.
Those violations included five for over-height vehicles.
Tickets Issued for Speeding, Seatbelts, Cell Phones and Registration Issues
Troopers also issued 189 uniform traffic tickets during the detail.
The tickets included violations for speeding, lack of seatbelt or restraints, cell phone use, registration and license issues, and other offenses.
The enforcement was part of a broader effort to reduce crashes, improve commercial vehicle compliance, and prevent bridge and overpass damage along the 570-mile Thruway system.
More Than 375 Bridge Strikes Recorded in Five Years
New York State Police said bridge strikes remain a serious concern on the Thruway.
“Over the last five years, more than 375 bridge strikes were recorded on the Thruway system,” NYSP said.
Troopers said recent bridge hits involving over-height commercial vehicles in both the downstate area and Western New York show why drivers must know their vehicle height and plan routes that avoid low-clearance structures.
Thruway Height Limit Is 13 Feet, 6 Inches
State Police said the maximum legal vehicle height on the New York State Thruway is 13 feet, 6 inches.
Vehicles taller than that require a permit.
Authorities said preventing bridge strikes helps protect transportation infrastructure, reduce costly repairs, limit traffic delays, and keep drivers safer.
Troop T is responsible for law enforcement and public safety along the New York State Thruway.
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