These vehicles facilitate the safe passage of oversized loads along roadways. They are equipped with a vertical pole, often adjustable in height, used to proactively identify and mitigate potential overhead obstructions. This preventative measure ensures that large objects, such as pre-fabricated building sections or specialized industrial equipment being transported, can navigate routes without colliding with power lines, bridges, or other elevated structures. A common scenario involves these support vehicles preceding a wide-load tractor-trailer, scanning the path ahead for low-hanging wires.
Their value lies in minimizing the risk of damage to both the cargo and the infrastructure. They reduce delays caused by unexpected encounters with overhead obstacles, which can be costly and disruptive. The historical necessity for such services arose with the increasing prevalence of oversized transport and the need to avoid potentially catastrophic incidents involving energized power lines. The presence of personnel equipped with these support vehicles is vital for efficient and safe oversized transport operations.
