XPO Logistics, a supply chain services provider, has started trialling a Low Bridge Alerting System (LBAS) from telematics company VUE.

XPO has been evaluating the new in-cab truck technology during day and night distribution runs from its Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk depot.

The VUE Low Bridge Alerting System uses telematics to automatically warn a truck driver when low bridges pose a strike risk along the route.

The solution eliminates the potential for human error and stores data histories of alerts that can be accessed for training and documentation purposes.

Glen Mullins, VUE managing director, said: “XPO’s feedback has been invaluable and we’re delighted the trials have succeeded.

“We hope to keep creating more solutions with XPO’s input in the future, to continue to help fleet owners solve prevalent issues through innovation.”

Around 2,000 bridge strikes happen every year in the UK, costing millions of pounds in infrastructure damages, as well as significant truck repair costs and service interruptions.

Network Rail relaunched its ‘Wise Up, Size Up’ campaign last year to remind lorry drivers and haulage operators to take better care by knowing the height of their vehicles and choosing suitable routes before they head out on journeys.

At the time Network Rail revealed the Coddenham Road bridge on the B1078 in Suffolk was the most bashed bridge in Britain.

Located in Needham Market, Suffolk, the bridge was struck 19 times last year, amounting to £41,331 in unnecessary train delay and cancellation costs.