Road works, level crossings and tramways•Rule 307
Driving Safely Under Overhead Wires
Overhead electric lines. Tramway overhead wires are normally 5.8 metres above any carriageway, but can be lower. You should ensure that you have sufficient clearance between the wire and your vehicle (including any load you are carrying) before driving under an overhead wire. Drivers of vehicles with extending cranes, booms, tipping apparatus or other types of variable height equipment should ensure that the equipment is fully lowered. Where overhead wires are set lower than 5.8 metres, these will be indicated by height clearance markings – similar to ‘low bridge’ signs. The height clearances on these plates should be carefully noted and observed. If you are in any doubt as to whether your vehicle will pass safely under the wires, you should always contact the local police or the tramway operator. Never take a chance as this can be extremely hazardous.
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This rule says you must make sure your vehicle, including any load or raised equipment, can safely fit under tramway overhead wires and obey any height clearance signs. If you are unsure, you must not risk it and should contact the police or tramway operator. For example, if you are driving a tipper lorry with the body raised after unloading near tram tracks, you must fully lower it and check the posted height before driving under the wires, and if you still aren’t sure it will clear, you must stop and seek advice rather than driving through.
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