FAQs Archive | Page 6 of 13 | Mackinac Bridge Authority

Why does my truck bed need to be empty during partial closures? Why can’t I have a tonneau cover? It stays on when I’m driving 75 on the expressway. What about camper awnings?

Posted on February 14th, 2023

Though our maximum speed limit on the bridge is 45 mph (and lower during high wind conditions), unfortunately we have seen many tonneau covers that stay on at freeway speeds come loose on the bridge. For whatever reason, high wind at the Straits seems to be stronger than tonneau fastening systems. When a tonneau cover… Read More

What vehicles are considered high-profile?

Posted on February 14th, 2023

When considering a high-wind escort or partial closure, high-profile vehicles would include but are not limited to:

Semi-tractor trailers
Recreational vehicles and campers
Pickup trucks with cappers, tonneau covers, or any items in the truck bed
Panel trucks and vans
Enclosed trailers (such as snowmobile or AT

How did the Mackinac Bridge Authority determine what wind speeds resulted in advisories and closures?

Posted on February 14th, 2023

The current procedures were developed primarily through years of experience, learning what wind speeds cause issues for particular vehicles. We’ve learned lessons from previous incidents, improved the devices we use to measure the wind, the way we convey that information through message boards and the bridg… Read More

What wind conditions result in high wind warnings, escorts, partial closures, and full closures?

Posted on February 14th, 2023

Here are the speeds that trigger different wind warnings and closures. These speeds are not for gusts; they are sustained winds from any direction. These are minimum conditions resulting in advisories and closures but restrictions may be put in place at lower wind speeds if other hazardous conditions are present:… Read More

What payment types are accepted at the Mackinac Bridge toll booths?

Posted on February 7th, 2023

The Mackinac Bridge currently accepts the following payment types at our toll booths: cash, credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. If you are a frequent crosser or would like the convenience of a prepaid account, check out our MacPass. While all these payment types are accepted, cash, Apple Pay, Google Pay… Read More

How often does the Mackinac Bridge Authority close the bridge due to falling ice?

Posted on November 17th, 2022

Since 1995 (as far back as we have records for partial and total closures), the Authority has closed the bridge 28 times for ice. The first noted closure was on Jan. 30, 1998, when the bridge was closed for two hours and 50 minutes. The most recent was April 3, 2022, when the bridge was closed for six hours and 57 minutes. Th… Read More

What about in cases of emergencies? I have to get to a medical appointment, or my child is alone at home, or I need my medication and don’t have it with me. Will you let me cross then?

Posted on November 10th, 2022

The Authority can’t be the arbitrator for what constitutes an emergency. If you approach our staff asking to cross due to an emergency, you are welcome to call 911, or they can do so for you, and law enforcement officers can (as appropriate) take the necessary steps to get you across for your emergency situation.… Read More

So you say the bridge is closed, but who’s going to stop me?

Posted on November 10th, 2022

Not us, as we’re not a law enforcement agency, but our partners with local police departments and the Michigan State Police sure will. In fact, they’ve done it before, and those who have tried didn’t make it across. We urge you not to attempt it.… Read More

I hear what the Authority is saying about the danger of falling ice, but I’m willing to take the risk. I mean, what are the chances? I’ll sign a liability waiver; why can’t you just let me go?

Posted on November 10th, 2022

We can’t, and won’t, allow non-emergency traffic across the bridge during a falling ice closure. We’ve seen up close the size and shape of the ice that falls from the towers and cables, as well as the damage it has done to vehicles over the years. A piece like that coming through your windshield from 300 feet up? De… Read More

So I’ve been stranded in St. Ignace or Mackinaw City due to a falling ice closure and I have no idea how long the closure will last. What is the Mackinac Bridge Authority doing to make sure I don’t run out of gas, or provide restroom facilities, or provide food or beverages?

Posted on November 10th, 2022

While we certainly sympathize with being stuck in a closure of uncertain duration, the Authority isn’t equipped to aid travelers in that way. We do know from experience that the two communities have responded to the needs of travelers during past closures, though nobody likes to be unexpectedly delayed. We won�… Read More