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New Overweight Truck Regulations in Indiana
New regulations concerning overweight trucks will come into effect in Indiana starting July 1.
Overview of Legislative Changes
The changes to the oversize and overweight motor carrier regulations are part of House Enrolled Act 1190, which became law in April. This legislation eliminates the specific lists of commodities and weight limits for certain goods from the definition of “overweight divisible load.” The act redefines this term to include a tractor-trailer and its load that can be divided, while adhering to other height, length, and width requirements, and has a gross vehicle weight exceeding 80,000 pounds yet below 120,000 pounds.
Implications for the Trucking Industry
Previously, overweight commodity permits were limited to certain items like metals and agricultural products. According to Gary Langston, president of the Indiana Motor Truck Association, the steel industry plays a significant role in the state. He noted, “The goal was to avoid itemizing commodities, allowing any commodity to qualify under the new 120,000-pound guideline to ensure fair treatment for all and enable movement forward.”
Permit Application and Regulations
Under the new law, carriers can seek permits for overweight commodity loads that exceed 2.4 equivalent single-axle loads, with weights ranging from 80,000 to 120,000 pounds. An equivalent single-axle load is defined as the standardized damage to highway pavement comparable to one pass of a single axle with dual tires weighing 18,000 pounds, inflated to 110 pounds per square inch.
Restrictions and Penalties
The legislation also provides guidelines for permits through the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT). Upon receipt of a formal application, INDOT may issue permits for transporting overweight vehicles on state-maintained highways, including certain urban routes. Local authorities may similarly grant permits for their controlled roads. Non-compliance with designated routes will result in civil penalties against the carrier, with fines up to $1,000 for initial violations and higher amounts for repeat offenses, and up to $5,000 for failure to acquire permits.
Future Reports and Considerations
INDOT may restrict the issuance of overweight divisible load permits if unusual infrastructure damage or accident rates are observed. The department is limited to issuing 8,500 permits annually, though emergency situations may warrant temporary increases. By October 1, 2021, INDOT is expected to reassess permit fees based on the impact of overweight divisible loads, and by July 1, 2023, the agency must report to the legislative council regarding fee structures and any suggested adjustments.
