The East Maine Street Bridge in Enid, Oklahoma, has gained local notoriety for frequent collisions with oversized trucks due to its low clearance of just 11 feet, 4 inches. Despite flashing warning signs, blinking lights, and a distinct shark's mouth painted on both sides, truck drivers often misjudge the height and attempt to pass under it. Over the years, this bridge has become infamous for "eating trucks," as many larger vehicles end up with their tops peeled off or stuck beneath the bridge. The railroad bridge, built in 1908, continues to be a hazard despite efforts to alert drivers to its clearance (TravelOK) (Enid Buzz).
One of the more memorable accidents occurred in 2016 when a truck collision at the bridge went viral on social media. The video, shared widely on platforms like Facebook and YouTube, was viewed over 141,000 times on Enid Buzz's Facebook page alone. The bridge's unusual track record has even earned it a dedicated following, including a Facebook page and frequent media coverage (Enid Buzz). The recurring accidents have become a local talking point, with Enid residents keeping an informal count of how many trucks have hit the bridge.
Fortunately, no serious injuries have been reported from these incidents, though the damage to the trucks can be severe, often leaving them undriveable. Local authorities ensure the bridge is inspected after each collision, and truck drivers typically face fines for attempting to drive through despite the clear warnings (Enid Buzz).
The bridge's fame continues to grow, turning what could be seen as a dangerous inconvenience into a quirky part of Enid's identity. Visitors can even find the East Maine Street Bridge featured on local tourism sites and are encouraged to take selfies with it (Visit Enid Oklahoma).
For more information and pictures of past accidents, you can visit Enid Buzz’s coverage of the bridge or the Visit Enid page.