Vancouver/CMEDIA: A new overheight-detection system (OHDS) will reportedly protect Travellers and property in Chilliwack to help prevent overpass collisions.
The proper measurement of vehicle/load height is a component of the mandatory entry-level training program for Class 1 drivers.
“Overheight collisions are entirely preventable…will help ensure that overweight commercial drivers get advanced warning before reaching the overpass. By combining proven detection tools with stronger enforcement methods, we are taking action to reduce the number of strikes and keep people and goods moving safely,” Mike Farnworth, Minister of Transportation and Transit has said.
The Province of British Columbia (BC) reportedly introduced in 2024 new safety requirements for commercial vehicles, as well as penalties for commercial vehicle-related infrastructure collisions.
Having begun Monday, March 9, 2026 construction on the OHDS on Highway 1 westbound at No. 3 Road Interchange in Chilliwack, the new system once installed will use a combination of beam-break sensors, radar, cameras and flashing beacons to detect vehicles that exceed height limits and alert drivers, allowing them to divert before they reach the overpass.
Having been the site of repeated collisions — which have caused costly repairs and major traffic delays –the No. 3 road location was chosen as the test site for the multi-technology approach.
Since 2021, the overpass has been struck six times, resulting in extended closures.
“Preventing overpass strikes is a shared priority for industry and government…Commercial carriers move over 90% of the goods that keep British Columbia’s economy running…Combined with proper training and ongoing enforcement, this type of investment supports safer highways and a more reliable transportation network for the movement of goods.” Dave Earle, president and CEO, BC Trucking Association has said.
Strengthening prevention for road safety
As part of the Province’s ongoing efforts to improve safety and protect highway travellers and infrastructure, The OHDS’ preventative measures, such as speed-limiter devices for heavy commercial vehicles, as well as in-cab warning devices for dump-style commercial vehicles capable of rising above 4.15 metres, are improving safety.
As part of enhanced enforcement efforts to reduce infrastructure collisions the Province has since December 2021 suspended more than 45 carriers under investigation and issued more than $66,000 in violation tickets to involved drivers and carriers.
Infrastructure collisions have decreased from 29 in 2024 to 17 in 2025.
Funded through the 2025-26 Intelligent Transportation Systems program, the project’s $2-million budget shows how budgeted investments are being used to improve public safety, protect infrastructure and support the movement of goods in the region.
