Truck-safe navigation is designed specifically for commercial drivers. Instead of using car-based directions, it routes you based on your truck’s size, weight, and configuration so you can avoid unsafe roads, restricted areas, and costly violations.
This article explains how truck-safe navigation works and what information it uses to help keep you on compliant routes.
What Makes Truck-Safe Navigation Different
Unlike standard GPS apps, truck-safe navigation accounts for real-world trucking restrictions, including:
- Low bridges and overpasses
- Weight-restricted roads and bridges
- Truck-restricted routes and local bans
- Hazardous material (Hazmat) restrictions
- Roads unsuitable for large, heavy, or multi-trailer vehicles
The goal is to help you reach your destination safely, legally, and efficiently.
How Routes Are Calculated
Truck-safe navigation calculates routes using a combination of your truck profile and truck-specific road data.
1. Your Truck Profile
Routes are customized using the truck details you enter, including:
- Vehicle height
- Vehicle weight
- Axle weight
- Vehicle length
- Number of trailers
- Axle count
- Hazmat status (if applicable)
Accurate truck information is critical. Incorrect or missing details may result in routes that do not fully avoid restrictions.
2. Truck-Specific Road Data
The navigation system uses commercial vehicle data such as:
- Posted bridge heights
- Road and bridge weight limits
- Axle-based restrictions
- Truck-restricted streets
- Hazmat-restricted corridors
- State and local trucking regulations
This data is regularly updated based on known restrictions.
3. Smart Routing Logic
When planning a route, the system:
- Excludes roads your truck cannot legally or safely use based on height, weight, axle limits, and trailer configuration
- Prioritizes truck-approved highways and major roads
- Balances safety with efficiency to reduce unnecessary detours
What Truck-Safe Navigation Helps You Avoid
Using truck-safe navigation can help reduce:
- Bridge strikes
- Overweight or axle-limit violations
- Routing onto roads that prohibit multi-trailer vehicles
- Forced U-turns or unsafe last-minute reroutes
- Stress caused by unexpected restrictions
Important Limitations to Know
Truck-safe navigation is a powerful tool, but it does not replace your judgment.
- Always follow posted road signs and local instructions
- Temporary restrictions (construction, detours, emergency closures) may not appear immediately
- Road conditions and enforcement rules can change faster than map data updates
If something looks unsafe or illegal, do not proceed—even if the route suggests it.
Tips for Best Results
- Keep your truck profile fully updated, including axle weight and number of trailers
- Recheck height, weight, and configuration before long trips
- Review the route overview before starting navigation
- Report incorrect routing or missing restrictions when you encounter them
Need Help?
If you have questions about truck-safe navigation or believe a route is incorrect, contact Trucker Path Support through the app for assistance. Fleetsupport@truckerpath.com
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