NC Governor Waives Weight Limits, Truck Driver Hourly Limits as Winter Storm Hits

With heavy snow and ice on the way, North Carolina’s governor on Tuesday issued an emergency declaration, waiving weight and registration checks for some trucks and hourly limits on drivers delivering essential items.

The waivers could potentially play a role in “big truck” lawsuits in the state. Such personal injury suits around the country have often cited tractor-trailer weight limits and driver fatigue in seeking millions of dollars after accidents.

North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein said in his order that he also is activating the state’s Emergency Management Agency, National Guard and others as significant amounts of snow, freezing rain, and sleet were forecast for the central part of the state Wednesday and Thursday, according to news reports.

The order will be in effect for 30 days. Stein noted that he is not waiving weight limits for most transport vehicles, but only enforcement of weight and size limits for trucks carrying agricultural products.

Also, the state Department of Public Safety and Department of Transportation “shall waive the maximum hours of service for drivers prescribed by DPS pursuant to N.C. Gen. Stat. § 20-381 for (1) persons transporting essential fuels, food, water, non-alcoholic beverages, medical supplies, feed for livestock and poultry, (2) persons transporting livestock, poultry, and crops ready to be harvested, and (3) vehicles used in the restoration of utility and transportation services.”

The order can be seen here.

Topics Auto Windstorm Personal Auto North Carolina