New York does not allow commercial trucks to use its parkways because they are too narrow and winding, and they are also full of low hanging overpasses that are too small for trucks to fit under. New York has placed plenty of warning signs before each of these overpasses warning commercial truck drivers, but truck accidents as a result of low overpasses continue to be an issue.
There have been over 200 of these types of accidents since 2005 alone. New York Senator Chuck Schumer believes that GPS devices are at least partially to blame, however, for routing trucks down streets where they are not permitted. The GPS devices do not distinguish between a truck and a regular vehicle, so they do not alter routes accordingly.
In an open letter to Ray LaHood, the Federal Department of Transportation Secretary, Schumer requested a thorough investigation into the issue. Schumer claimed that New York has spent $3 million to post 200 bridge warning signs as well as educate drivers about the issue of GPS and low overpasses.
Trucking companies should look into correcting the issue and should not need federal guidance and new legislation. After all, it is their trucks being damaged in accidents and putting drivers and other motorists at risk.
Please visit our site for more information on truck accidents, and contact our firm for a free consultation if you or a loved one has been injured.
Spevack Law Firm—Middlesex County truck accident attorneys.
