Chairs: Hugh Gillies, CEO Transport Scotland, UK & Jeffrey Purdy, FHWA, USA 

This session will address the findings of two PIARC Special Projects “Overweight Vehicles: Impact On Road Infrastructure And Safety” and the “Bridge And Tunnel Strikes By Oversized Vehicles”. The relevant reports are available for free below.

Overweight Vehicles: Impact On Road Infrastructure And Safety
This project compiled the available information on overweight road freight vehicles around the world, the impacts they have on road infrastructure, road safety and the economic position of road infrastructure managers, and collected global best practices to prevent and mitigate overloading.

The project offers a view on the global experience and the impacts on pavements, bridges and road safety.

Bridge And Tunnel Strikes By Oversized Vehicles
The objective of this study was to examine proven countermeasures, practices, and technologies used to reduce the incidence of oversize vehicles striking bridges and tunnels along with effective processes for accurately reporting and tracking bridge strike occurrences. Specific consideration was given to recommendations that can be effectively implemented in LMICs, Low Middle Income Countries.

The study involved a detailed review of the causes, consequences and mitigation measures available in relation to the bridge and tunnel strike problem. Data was gathered through a combination of surveys, interviews and desk-based research. In order to develop a business case, the economic situation was evaluated by way of Cost Benefit Analysis (CBA).

The session will end with common Q&A for both Special Projects.