why are trucks required to stop at weigh stations, and how does that whole thing work?

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I was on the freeway yesterday and saw a signed that said “Trucks not given bypass signal must stop at scales”. I saw several trucks in line at the scale and one pulling in, but one driving past without exiting. There also seem to be some overhead scanning devices similar the EZPass lane scanners just before the scales.

I understand why shippers would want to weigh trucks and track their shipments, but why would it be a law that people have to do this? How does it all work with the scanners and the bypass signals and the paperwork? What happens if you don’t stop?

In: Economics

8 Answers

Anonymous 0 Comments

Notice potholes. Those potholes are caused by overweight vehicles. Same for those on the freeway, potholes are almost always on the truck lanes. The fines they impose on the trucks goes to fix the road.

Not all streets are constructed the same. Main streets and freeways have thicker reinforced concrete. Neighborhood streets are thinner and there are signs posted telling you the weight limit before you enter.

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