What is a weight limit traffic sign and what does it mean?
DRIVERS are required to know about a variety of road signs that we will see on a daily basis.
One of those signs is the weight limit traffic sign – we explain what it means.
What is a weight limit traffic sign?
A weight limit traffic sign prevents lorries or Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) that weigh more than 7.5 tonnes from using roads that are unsuitable for them.
These aim to improve the environment for residents and encourage walking or cycling.
Drivers of HGVs should always use routes that are the most appropriate for their vehicle.
These include motorways and trunk roads.
They should avoid local roads such as A & B roads unless it’s absolutely necessary.
HGVs should also avoid environmentally sensitive areas.
HGVs can cause problems for communities.
These problems can be causing excessive noise and vibration when using small residential roads, getting stuck on narrow roads and causing traffic.
However, it’s important to note HGVs are essential for supporting local businesses and communities.
In some cases HGvs will need to use unsuitable roads in order to gain access for local deliveries to businesses.
It’s also possible for HGV drivers to accidentally drive up an unsuitable road due an out of date sat nav and being unfamiliar with the area.
However, you can’t prevent HGV’s from using your road as they are allowed to use any road for access and deliveries.
What does a weight limit traffic sign mean?
The Highway Code states this sign means:
“No vehicles over maximum gross weight shown (in tonnes).”
It can usually be found on the side of roads to ensure HGV drivers don’t continue their journey if their vehicle weighs more than the weight limit.
These signs may also be placed on roads with a weakness such as a bridge which could be at risk of collapsing under a heavier vehicle.
Can you get fined for not following the rules regarding a weight limit traffic sign?
Weight restriction orders make it an offence for you to drive a vehicle within a restricted area.
The police and Training Standards Service can enforce weight restriction orders under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984.
Weight restriction orders are meant to protect old or weak bridges and structures.
They’ll also stop heavy vehicles from going to areas that are unsuitable for their size or if they could potentially pose a danger.
If the driver is found to be guilty for the offence, their company could also be found responsible.
If the vehicle is breaching a weight restriction you could be prosecuted and face a fine of £1000.
The council may also seek to recover prosecution costs.