North Carolina Trucking Laws and Regulations

The federal government restricts the size and weight of trucks that can travel on the National System of Interstate and Defense Highways. Trucks are limited to:

• 80,000 pounds for the gross weight of a vehicle,

• 20,000 pounds for a single axle, or

• 34,000 pounds for a tandem axle.

However, states have the option to issue permits allowing overweight or oversized vehicles to travel on these highways or any other roads.

In North Carolina, trucks larger than 8 feet 6 inches wide, 13 feet 6 inches tall, 40 feet (single vehicle) or 60 feet (vehicle combo) long, or weighing more than 20,000 pounds for a single axle, or 38,000 pounds for a tandem axle, must obtain overload permits. Load permits are available for both divisible and nondivisible loads, as long as objects and items are reduced to the smallest dimensions possible. Oversize permits are available for trucks up to 12 feet wide (14 feet for farm equipment); 75 feet long; or 13 feet 6 inches high. Overweight permits are available for trucks with a 51-foot wheelbase that weigh up to 90,000 pounds.

Both single trip permits and annual permits are available. Single trips must take place during the 10 calendar days after receiving the permit. Oversize trucks are not permitted to move at night, must consistently maintain a safe speed, and must move to the side of the road to allow the traffic behind to pass.

Oversized trucks in North Carolina must maintain the insurance coverage required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration: $750,000 in liability insurance, $500,000 in cargo insurance, and a $10,000 bond.

Has a Trucking Accident Occurred?

Munley, Munley & Cartwright, PC accepts and successfully resolves major trucking injury cases nationwide. Our lawyers, paralegals, and other professionals are specially trained to evaluate, develop, and negotiate these difficult cases to protect and benefit our clients. You do not pay any fee unless we win money damages for you. That means you can get the most experienced legal help and it won't cost one dime more than you would pay any other firm -- and we get RESULTS!

The goal of Munley, Munley & Cartwright is simple and direct: To Successfully Resolve the Legal Problems of our Clients.

If you have questions about an accident involving a tractor trailer, let us go to work for you.

You can contact the trucking attorneys of Munley, Munley & Cartwright for a free consultation by completing our online accident evaluation form -or- calling toll-free at 877-421-9175.