Present law generally prohibits the limitation as to length of vehicles from applying to loads of poles, logs, or timber in single length pieces. However, a motor vehicle, including any part of the body or load, transporting such material must not be in excess of 75 feet in length unless a permit for such has first been obtained. This bill adds that a load of poles, logs, or timber must be (i) hauled by a trailer with an extendable and retractable rear impact protection that meets or exceeds the standards set forth by the national highway traffic safety administration and extends beyond the longest log, pole, or piece of timber on the trailer or (ii) followed by an escort vehicle with a sign attached to the rear of the vehicle that is at least 7 feet wide and 18 inches high and contains the words "OVERSIZE LOAD" in black letters that are at least 10 inches high on a yellow background. However, if the department of safety or department of transportation receives documentation from a federal agency that compliance with a provision of this bill may jeopardize federal funding or grant money for the respective department, then the applicable department is not required to comply with such provision of this bill, but the department must comply with each provision that does not so jeopardize such federal funding or grant money.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 55-7-201