Logging trucks in Louisiana make up a large number of accidents in the state. These accidents are often fatal.
Because of the great risks, these trucks pose on the roads, they have some strict restrictions and rules they must follow when it comes to weight. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Louisiana has several important load weight rules for logging trucks.
General rule
A truck’s weight when loaded is very important to monitor. The maximum, in general, is 80,000 pounds, but there are exceptions. If a truck has a combination of tridum and quadrum axles, they may be able to go up to a maximum of 88,000, depending on where they will travel. Forestry trucks, or logging trucks, also have a permitted axle weight of 37,000 pounds each.
Permits
If a logging truck needs a permit, then it is possible for officials to issue one that would allow for a maximum weight of 100,000 pounds. The government will generally only issue such permits in the event of an emergency or natural disaster.
Officials also may issue permits for logging during certain harvests. These permits also allow for increased weight over the limits for the type of truck.
Permits may also allow for traveling on roadways generally not open to trucks or that have lower load limits. The state may also place limits on logging trucks as to which roadways they may use and what routes they must travel.
Drivers need to be aware of the rules for driving on Lousiana roadways and always stay on top of their load weight when traveling.