Aug 26, 2022 2 min read

OS/OW Civil Escorts

The laws and standards for oversized and overweight loads on public roadways are essentially the responsibility of each state, and hence may differ, sometimes dramatically, from one state to the next, especially when pilot or escort vehicles are necessary. Usually, if the cargo is more than 12' broad, 14' 6" high, and/or exceeds 90 to 100 feet in length, a truck carrying an over-dimensional load is usually required to be escorted by one or more pilot cars. Many jurisdictions need two pilot vehicles, one in front and one behind, if the width is 14 feet or greater. These are frequent over-dimensions and state standards to keep in mind. Additional criteria may be imposed by each state. Over-dimension/overweight load operators are advised to check the requirements of each state where they want to operate.

When permits are granted, the state body granting them will specify if and how many escort cars are necessary. It should be noted that each state have their own requirements and what applies to one state may differ in another.

The operator is then required to find the civil escorts. Unfortunately, DOTs do not have authorized civil escorts, so the operator should find the necessary pilot cars by themselves, usually online. In order to become a Certified Pilot Escort Vehicle Operator and provide services it is enough to be 18 years old or 21 in some states. Certification usually is obtained by taking a one-day course.

It takes more than merely leading an excessive cargo to operate an escort vehicle. It necessitates an awareness of what the truck driver requires in terms of support, as well as what is required to keep all vehicle operators in the proximity of the cargo safe. Drivers must be aware of potential risks, slowdowns, and other obstacles that a truck driver may encounter. Therefore, when choosing a company that provides these services, the operator should inform himself about how long the company is in business for the safety of all parties involved.

There is a lot of freedom in terms of the size and kind of vehicle that can be utilized as an escort vehicle. Escort cars in some jurisdictions are required to weigh at least 2,000 pounds. Other jurisdictions just require the civil escort to have a clean 360-degree field of view when driving. This criterion may rule out panel trucks and vans.

Escort vehicles must additionally have a big, adequate "WIDE LOAD" warning sign that complies with the criteria of the states through which they are passing, either mounted on the top of the vehicle or on the front and back of the vehicle. Escort vehicles may be required to show placards or signs with the name, address, and phone number of the pilot or escort firm. Many states additionally require escort vehicles to be equipped with warning flags. Two or four flags are necessary depending on the state. Some states need 12" square flags, while others want 18" square flags.