Derry's Foyle Bridge will be closed when wind speeds reach over 80km/h.
A new £800,000 safety system is being introduced following the death of a driver whose lorry was blown off the bridge on to mudflats 30m (100ft) below in January last year.
An investigation into the death of Peter McGuinness from Aghagallon, near Lurgan, cleared the authorities of any blame in leaving the bridge open despite a severe weather warning at the time.
But after a review of procedures for shutting it during high winds, a series of variable message signs are to be strategically placed before next winter as part of wind monitoring equipment which will warn drivers and advise on alternate routes.
When winds reach 50km/h, traffic will be limited to a 50km/h speed limit.
If winds get to 60km/h, drivers of high-sided vehicles will be advised to use Craigavon Bridge and when they reach 80km/h the Foyle Bridge will be closed completely.
