A new lorry-friendly sat nav unit is now on sale in a bid to help truck drivers avoid coming unstuck at the hands of narrow roads and low bridges.
The TomTom GO 7000, which is aimed specifically at HGVs, is available from the Freight Transport Association (FTA).
Drivers can enter their vehicle's weight and dimensions into the device, receiving information on clearance heights and other restrictions or potential problems.
The unit also has a stronger bias for motorways and major roads, meaning it is less likely to send trucks down small and narrow country lanes.
James Firth, policy manager at the FTA, said: "This product is more appropriate for HGVs and will help drivers to avoid obstacles on their delivery routes, saving money and time and preventing chaos along our urban and rural road networks."
However, he pointed out that even the most impressive technology should not be seen as a substitute for common sense, warning drivers to also pay attention to other indicators like road and bridge signs.
The development comes after the Institute for Advanced Motorists warned that too many business drivers are "blindly following" sat nav instructions, rather than relying on their own knowledge and initiative.
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