Oversize Loads in Texas

Load Accidents Can Be Severe

While many individuals may understand that there is a great deal of consequence for truckers who take illicit drugs, drink and drive, drive erratically in inclement weather, or simply do not take stock of their own behavior, one additional issue that can be especially problematic is when it comes to failing to uphold certain weight limits. Call a load truck accident attorney for help.

Failure to follow these size and weight limits can lead to an array of different problems, from accidents that create injuries or even fatalities to the potential release of hazardous materials, as well as monetary costs that may be associated with accident cleanup and further prevention. In addition, it can also create legal issues for both drivers who fail to properly gauge load weights and any other drivers that they become involved with.

According to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, Texas has very specific weight limits that must be followed at all times. These loads are specifically measured with vehicle sizes in mind and require an oversized and/or overweight permit to be used on Texas bridges and roadways. In addition, according to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, one should also keep in mind the following size and weight limit standards:

• Width is measured from the outside points of the widest extremities, excluding safety devices.
• Height is measured from the roadbed to the highest point of the load.
• Length is measured from the foremost point of the vehicle or load, whichever extends further, to the rearmost point of the vehicle or load, whichever extends further.
• Additionally, weight also includes the weight of the vehicle or combination, as well as the weight of the load being transported.

Furthermore, in terms of size and weight limits, the following should be considered:

Legal Size and Weight Limits

For vehicles that do not have a permit, the following size is acceptable for vehicles to operate on Texas highways:

• Width: 8’6”
• Height: 14’

Length is as followed:

• Single Motor vehicle: 45 feet
• Truck-tractor: Unlimited
• Semitrailer, or two vehicle combination: 59 feet
• Two or Three-Vehicle Combination other than truck-tractor or semitrailer: 65 feet
• Each trailer or semitrailer of a combination: 28.5 feet
• Traditional boat/auto transporter combination: 65 feet
• Commercial truck & stinger-steered semitrailer transporting autos/boats: 75 feet
• Front overhang: 3 feet
• Rear Overhang: 4 feet

Weight is as followed:

• Gross: 80,000 pounds maximum
• Single axle: 20,000 pounds
• Tandem axle group: 34,000 pounds
• Triple axel group: 42,000 pounds
• Quad axle group : 50,000 pounds

Strick Limits on Size and Weight

The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles also outlines size limits with a Texas permit, as well as weight limits with a Texas permit. The state makes these charts readily available as it is imperative for weight limits to be followed closely. Failure to do so will run the potential of having unsecured loads fall off the vehicle, cause accidents, or simply cause damage to the vehicles, which can also warrant additional problems.

To this extent, it is essential that these weight limits are kept in mind at all times when transporting any loads across the Texas highway system. If you have been involved in a truck accident in the Houston, Texas area, call the best truck crash attorney in Houston for a free consultation.

Related Resources:

Accidents caused by oversize loads

Wide and oversize loads in texas

Fatal Bridge Accident with Big Rig – No Oversize Permit

Facts You Should Know About Semi Trucks

Understanding big rigs

Source:

https://www.txdmv.gov/motor-carriers/oversize-overweight-permits/texas-size-weight-limits

About Greg Baumgartner

Greg Baumgartner is a preeminent rated personal injury lawyer based in Houston, Texas, with over three decades of experience representing severely injured clients in truck accidents. He founded Baumgartner Law Firm, in 1985, with a mission to provide excellent legal representation and personalized attention to every client.