Oversized Loads

The Atlanta, Georgia law firm of Henry Spiegel Milling LLP represents the victims of accidents caused by truck drivers who do not follow oversized load regulations by aggressively fighting for their rights.

If a truck driver is going to transport an oversize load, Georgia and federal regulations require that they obtain special permits and meet strict requirements to prevent accidents and injuries to others. Failure to do so can result in devastating accidents that put the lives of other drivers at risk. If a truck driver carrying an oversized load fails to follow regulations and an accident occurs as a result, you may be entitled to receive compensation for the injuries and damages you have sustained.

What is an oversized load?

According to the Federal Department of Transportation, an oversized load is one that is more than 20,000 pounds for a single axle vehicle, 34,000 pounds for a tandem axle, or 80,000 pounds for the gross weight of the vehicle. If the weight of a truck’s load is greater than the Department of Transportation’s limits, a driver must obtain a special permit from each state they will be traveling through and meet oversized load requirements.

Divisible and Nondivisible Loads

An oversized load is considered nondivisible if it exceeds weight regulations, and can not be separated into small loads due to one of the following reasons:

• It would compromise the functioning of the vehicle
• It would compromise the value of the load
• It would take more than eight hours to dismantle the load (must be proven by the applicant for the permit)

If a load is nondivisible, a driver may obtain a permit to transport the load through the necessary states.

Identification

A truck baring an oversize load must be properly marked with signs warning drivers that is an oversized load as well as red flags, red or white lights during the night, and at least two flashing amber lights. Additionally, an oversized load must be accompanied by a pilot and a trailing car to help navigate the hauling vehicle.

Failure to obtain proper permits and follow regulations can result in severe accidents and may make the driver of an oversize load liable for injuries and damages that have occurred.

For more information or to schedule a consultation with one of our truck accident attorneys, call the law firm of Henry Spiegel Milling LLP at 1-866-959-3877, or complete our quick contact web form.