Groups support bill limiting size and weight of commercial trucks

May 31, 2013 (Press-News.org) Recently, U.S. Senator Frank Lautenberg, D-NJ, introduced legislation designed to limit the size and weight of the large commercial trucks that travel our nation's highways. The Safe Highways and Infrastructure Preservation Act of 2013, also known as SHIPA, is intended not only to make sure that large trucks do not cause excessive strain and damage to highways, but also to prevent deadly truck accidents.

SHIPA basics

SHIPA has proven a popular measure both with safety groups and the trucking industry. For example, the bill has garnered support from the Truck Safety Coalition and Parents Against Tired Truckers, as well as from the Teamsters and the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association.

If it becomes law, SHIPA would limit 53-foot trailers to a weight of 80,000 pounds on five axles throughout the entire 220,000 mile U.S. national highway system. Current law imposes the same weight limit, but only on the 44,000 miles of the interstate system.

Odd bedfellows

It is not often that the interests of safety and trucking groups coincide, but many agree on the importance of SHIPA. Safety groups, of course, believe that limiting truck size is essential to keeping roadways safe and reducing the number of accidents. Groups such as the TSC have spoken out not only about the importance of truck size, but also mandating the use of speed limiters, lane departure warning systems and other safety equipment.

As far as trucking industry groups are concerned, efforts to allow larger trucks may harm the industry. Indeed, many smaller trucking companies may not be able to compete if larger, heavier trucks are allowed to transport goods. They simply would not be able to cover the increased costs of fuel and equipment that would be necessary to remain competitive.

Competing bill

The TSC, PATT, OOIDA and other groups have also joined forces to speak out against a competing transportation bill, the Safe Efficient Transportation Act, that would allow for larger, heavier trucks on federal highways. SETA would allow for longer combination tractor trailers, as well as trucks weighing up to 97,000 pounds on six axles. SETA has received broad support from larger shipping and trucking companies.

Of course, only time will tell whether SHIPA or SETA makes it through Congress to become law. If early discussions are any indication, the process is likely to be quite contentious. Hopefully, despite other concerns, lawmakers will be able to focus on measures that improve highway safety and make driving easier for everyone.

Article provided by Michael P. Fleming & Associates, P.C.
Visit us at www.flemingattorneys.com/