Van Strikes Long Grove’s Historic Bridge for At Least 72nd Time
A work van recently collided with the historic Robert Parker Coffin Bridge in Long Grove, marking at least the 72nd incident involving a vehicle striking the bridge. The occurrence took place on Wednesday at approximately 12:07 p.m., as captured by surveillance from Neumann’s Cigars and More.
Details of the Incident
The van, which was westbound on Robert Parker Coffin Road with ladders affixed to its roof, became wedged under the bridge’s canopy. Eyewitnesses noted that the driver stopped the vehicle after the impact and exited to assess the damage. Fortunately, the driver managed to detach the ladders and drive away from the scene shortly after.
History of Bridge Collisions
This latest collision is part of a troubling pattern that dates back to at least 2018. The Robert Parker Coffin Bridge has become notorious for vehicle strikes, with high-profile incidents—including oversized trucks and buses—frequently noting the damage inflicted. The most recent similar event occurred on February 4, 2023, when a box truck associated with GreenGrids solar company became trapped under the bridge.
Notable Incidents
- November 14, 2022: A mini bus carrying individuals with disabilities became the 70th vehicle to strike the bridge, resulting in damage but no injuries.
- October 9, 2022: A white pickup truck towing a large trailer also encountered the structure.
- May 20, 2022: A box truck was wedged under the bridge, leading to significant operational delays as authorities intervened.
Height Restrictions and Safety Measures
The bridge, previously known as the Long Grove Covered Bridge, was renamed in September 2022. It is now officially called the Robert Parker Coffin Bridge in honor of its designer and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
While numerous signs alert drivers to height restrictions, the repeated collisions indicate a persistent issue. Lake County law enforcement has emphasized the importance of these warnings to prevent future incidents.
Conclusion
As the number of vehicle strikes continues to rise, authorities remain vigilant in managing traffic around the historic bridge. The community’s safety relies on both compliance with posted restrictions and the ongoing assessment of the bridge’s condition.
