It’s that time of year when rain events will cause county and township road supervisors to impose weight restrictions on roads, and unwary violators could face huge fines.

Such a case occurred this week when a fuel truck delivery driver crossed into another county where a 12,000-pound-per-axle weight limit had been imposed because overnight rain had saturated the road. The vehicle, which was carrying 3,000 gallons of fuel, was stopped by a sheriff’s deputy and initially faced a fine of $9,200. However, after learning the driver was from an adjoining county and unaware that restrictions had been imposed that morning, the overweight penalty was not enforced.

The incident serves as a reminder to truckers of the notification procedures, and the obligation of local road superintendents to alert the public that the restrictions have been put in place. Counties that are members of the LoadPass Permit System can notify trucking companies through LoadPass, which offers text alerts and email notifications to those who sign up to be notified. Counties that impose restrictions are obligated to post notice on the county’s website, and many will also issue notifications through social media. If truckers have any doubts, they can check the list of restrictions on the LoadPass site, or contact the county highway department or sheriff’s office.

The restrictions apply to overweight vehicles in all industrial classes including farmers and ranchers who may be hauling equipment, fertilizer, livestock, grain or other commodities. 

Click here to see a table showing the fee schedule for overweight violations.