What is the typical clearance required for overhead structures on highways?

The typical clearance required for overhead structures on highways is 14 feet. This standard is established to accommodate the majority of vehicles that utilize highways, including large trucks and buses, which typically have heights that do not exceed this limit.

Having a clearance of 14 feet ensures that most commercial vehicles can pass safely without the risk of colliding with overhead structures such as bridges, signs, and utility lines. It helps to avoid accidents that could occur from vehicles striking these structures, which can lead to serious damage, stalled traffic, and dangerous situations.

While lower clearances may be suitable in some particular contexts, 14 feet serves as a safe and practical guideline for highway design, providing an adequate buffer to prevent vehicles from being at risk while also aligning with national standards seen in highway regulations. Thus, this height is universally accepted in highway engineering to ensure safety and efficiency on the roadways.