Like many states, Florida imposes regulations on truck drivers transporting heavy or oversized loads. These regulations work in conjunction with federal law to protect the safety of other motorists. Highlights of Florida’s regulations designed to reduce the risk of Sarasota truck accidents include:
- Truck drivers must obtain permits for heavy, oversized, or wide loads.
- Permits are only valid between one-half hour before sunrise and one-half hour after sunset.
- Loads that are over 10 feet wide but do not exceed 14 feet wide may travel until noon on Saturdays.
- Loads that are 10 feet wide and under may travel between one-half hour before sunrise and one-half hour after sunset; however, weekend travel must be requested at the time of permit application.
- All loads must be dismantled to the smallest possible dimension and weight.
- Truck drivers must provide the company address, proof of insurance, description of load, method of movement, load information, destination, and routes as part of the permit application.
- Travel is prohibited when roadway visibility is impaired due to smoke, fog, or rain.
- If traffic following the heavy load accumulates to 7 or greater cars, the truck must yield the right-of-way for the cars to pass at the nearest possible location.
- Any load over 15 feet wide, 15 feet high, or 150 feet long is deemed a “super load” and must be applied for using special application requirements.
If you were involved in a Florida truck accident, it is essential that you have a qualified legal professional in your corner. Contact an experienced Sarasota truck accident attorney immediately to protect your legal rights. For more information and a free consultation, complete our online submission form or call our office at (888) 409-3805.
