It gets old showing you videos of RVs that have had devastating encounters with low bridges. But we will keep showing them to help remind you to pay close attention to bridges and tunnels along your route that will rip a rig apart should it try to pass through.
The video at the bottom of this article is of an RV-bridge collision a couple of years ago. So it’s not “hot off the press” kinda news. But what it is is a reminder of how bad a close encounter with a low bridge can be. Ouch!
You must wonder what the heck was going through the mind of the driver of this Monaco motorhome when he tried to pass beneath a 9-foot, 9-inch train bridge in Racine, Missouri. We’ll be kind and assume he was distracted. Big mistake!
Whatever the case, it’s hard to imagine the horror the driver must have felt at the sound of the roof (and, in this case, sides) of the RV rip off above them.
We’ll assume that this beautiful motorhome was toast after this encounter, which was so bad that the highway it was traveling had to be shut down for a time. As you watch the video, pay attention to all the innards of the RV scattered by the side of the road.
Watch the video and weep!
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##RVT1170
Could happen to any of us- even us more experienced RV drivers.
I think you just suggested a new reader poll.
Know the total height, width, length, and weight of your rig(s). Taught to me in the military!
You can’t fix stupid.
I second that.
Looks like the video’s 2 years old. So yes, this is “old news”. I think we’re looking at the result of ignorance on the part of the motorhome driver. But:
1. Come on now. Seriously, an RV GPS (Garmin) is called for. Yes they’re expensive but if you can afford a HUGE diesel pusher motorhome then you can afford a Garmin.
2. Some folks really shouldn’t be out on the roads with these huge RV’s. Period.
I do feel for the RVers involved in this avoidable incident but 9′ 9″ clearance clearly posted, what were they thinking – or not thinking? Why would anyone begin to attempt this – unless they were oblivious to the height of their motorhome?
He must have been ‘hauling butt’ when he hit the bridge. You don’t do that much damage slowly trying to sneak under.
I use RV Trip Wizard, you input the height of your motorhome and it provides an RV safe route to each of your destinations. It even shows where low bridges are if you go off your route to get gas or a meal. No expensive GPS unit required, just your smartphone.
Still have to be aware. I have had Trip Wizard miss a low bridge but saw the warnings in plenty of time.
Missing by a couple inches is one thing but by three feet? Possible but not very plausible.
I think someone was looking for a fast way to get out of their RV without the hassle of trying to sell it…..
What class A MH is shorter than nine feet nine inches? I can’t think of one.
Thank you, RV Travel! Yikes! Have a great day, safe travels (know your vehicle height), and safe stays! 🙂
9′-9″ Ouch, that would shave my head into a flat top from the driver’s seat. Be careful, and mindful people.
If you look at the video the first bridge he came to was fine he’s the second one that he didn’t see was 9’9
The sign stated 9’9″ what difference does it make which bridge. As a owner of a coach that 12′ 3″ tall I would not proceed regardless which bridge. Hate to say, you can not fix stupid.
But there was also a sign up by the intersection that said 9′ 9″ ahead. The man fell asleep twice. AND not being able to visually distinguish the difference between 9′ and 13′??? And THEN not even trying to slow down??Oh, I can hear his wife now. “You never ask for directions. You always know a shortcut!”
Towing my Airstream, I am always concerned about dimension, and wonder about the drivers in the big rigs when they see the bridge at eye level.
Maybe the owner wanted to total it and file with his insurance
Need to pay double attention when driving a tall vehicle.