Everyone has likely seen trucks that say they are carrying an oversize load. They might be carrying industrial equipment, a shipping container, or a small house. Oversize loads might be a risk for other drivers, and if there is a crash, they can damage other vehicles and their occupants. Luckily, working with the right oversize load companies will help to mitigate these risks.
Increased Stopping Distance
If a driver is not careful, there can be safety issues for the oversized load truck. For instance, a loaded truck has a stopping distance of 196 feet, while a passenger vehicle only has 133 feet of stopping distance. The more mass a vehicle has, the more force is needed for stopping. This means it can be harder for these trucks to stop in a hurry if they need to.
Clearance and Height Issues
There are many sizes and shapes for oversized loads, including very tall ones. If the load is very tall, then the oversize load trucking company has to choose a route that avoids obstacles and low bridges. If the company does not assess the load correctly, choose the right route, or have the driver heed the warnings, the load might collide with an overpass or bridge and cause an accident.
Higher Risk of Fatalities
The heavier a load of a truck, the higher the risk of a crash. Some research has indicated that trucks weighing 80,000 pounds or more have a higher chance of getting in a crash. Plus, oversized loads can be so heavy that normal bridges and roads can’t support them properly. That means that some areas will not allow trucks to carry an oversized load.
If the truck does not travel on an approved route, then it can damage the road. That can create potholes and pavement cracks. This is why you need to partner with one of the best oversize load trucking companies.
Following the Regulations
Each state has laws on how companies deal with oversized loads, and cities can also have their own regulations. Many times, oversized loads require special permits. Because of how dangerous these can be, drivers might only be able to travel at certain hours. The weekends might be off-limits, as well. With very large loads, an escort vehicle or a pilot car might be necessary. One will be in front, and the other will go behind. They will have signs to indicate they are transporting over-width or over-height loads.
Picking the Right Oversize Load Companies
When you choose the right logistics provider, you can have peace of mind that you will not have to worry about your load is the cause of an accident. Contact MGA International Logistics today to learn more about our oversize load trucking services.
