SafeSense Solutions
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Introduction
Roadway bridge strikes—collisions between vehicles and the underside of overpasses—might seem easily preventable, yet recent data reveals a troubling rise in these accidents. In Boston, such incidents occur with alarming regularity on Storrow Drive, averaging as often as once per day during certain months. The phenomenon has even inspired a local term: getting "storrowed." However, this issue isn’t unique to Boston. Cities across the United States grapple with frequent bridge strikes, and despite efforts by local officials to install improved low-clearance signage, the number of accidents has shown no signs of declining.
We believe this problem can be addressed with a dashboard warning system for over-height vehicles. By integrating this technology with a GPS mobile application, drivers can proactively avoid routes with low-clearance bridges in Navigation Mode or receive real-time alerts about potential collision areas in Free Drive Mode. This solution not only promotes safer roads but also minimizes costly damage to vehicles and infrastructure, reducing traffic disruptions and improving urban logistics.
Problem
According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, the average cost of a roadway bridge strike is approximately $400,000 per incident. This figure excludes the broader economic impact, such as traffic delays, disruptions, and medical expenses from injuries. With over 3,000 bridge strikes occurring nationwide each year, this problem represents a billion-dollar challenge that remains unresolved.
Opportunity
At SafeSense Solutions, we are developing an innovative dashboard warning system designed to integrate with our personal mobile GPS app. This system offers two key modes: Navigation Mode, which helps drivers of oversized vehicles plan routes that avoid low-clearance overpasses, and Free Drive Mode, which provides real-time sound and verbal alerts when approaching roads with height restrictions.
Our initial focus is on rental truck companies in Boston, a major contributor to the frequent "Storrowing" incidents. Over time, we aim to expand our solution to trucking companies operating in urban areas nationwide, addressing a critical safety and logistical challenge in the transportation industry.