Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara announced today that the New York State Assembly has passed his legislation, A3536, aimed at helping prevent repeated bridge strikes by improving the use of GPS technology and bridge-height warning information for drivers.

The bill comes as communities across New York – including the Capital Region – continue to experience dangerous and costly crashes involving trucks striking low-clearance bridges and overpasses. Several local bridges have become repeat locations for crashes despite warning signs and posted height restrictions.

Assemblyman Santabarbara’s legislation focuses on improving how bridge-clearance information and alternate truck-safe routes are integrated into GPS and navigation technology used by drivers traveling through unfamiliar areas.

“We continue to see the same problem happen over and over again – trucks being routed toward bridges they cannot safely clear,” said Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara. “Even with signs and warnings in place, these crashes continue to cause major traffic disruptions, costly repairs, and serious public safety concerns. This bill is about using technology more effectively to help prevent those incidents before they happen.”

Bridge strikes have become an increasing issue statewide, including repeated incidents involving commercial vehicles using standard navigation systems that may not consistently account for vehicle height restrictions or truck-specific routing needs.

The legislation recognizes that bridge-clearance data already exists and can be better utilized to help drivers avoid hazardous routes and identify safer alternate paths.

“Drivers today rely heavily on GPS technology,” Santabarbara said. “If navigation systems can provide real-time warnings about crashes, traffic, and road closures, they should also help prevent drivers from being directed toward low-clearance bridges.”

Santabarbara noted that bridge strikes can result in significant delays, infrastructure damage, emergency response costs, and safety risks for both drivers and surrounding communities.