My ceiling was like 11 7/8". Just a hair under 12'. We have mine set at the lower setting, but there is a higher setting too (for the crossbar). I asked the installers what they do if it didn't fit. He said if someone has a lower ceiling, they put the risers between the joists and put the crossbar above the joists. Then they mount the safety switch to the bottom of the roof joists.
Auto shut-off on mine is a simple switch that opens if the bar is hit. If that switch opens, it opens a relay and cuts power to the hydraulic pump. I don't know about foolproof. I always watch it, but like 68Dart500 said, it usually isn't an issue. I run out of lift before my Barracuda can trip it. When I have my Suburban on there, I have always stopped before hitting it.
Attaching a picture of mine with the Barracuda on it....
Edit,... swapped with pic with license plate # blocked out. Safety first!!
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