You must know about Semi Trucks by now, and mostly if you have seen those drivers who spend considerable time on the open highway.They are a fact of life for those who must commute to, from, and during work. And this is not to mention the many travelers mixed in among the other traffic. They are big and they are loud, and they are often a major safety concern for those riding in standard passenger vehicles. There are characteristics of big trucks that every driver on the highway should know regarding safety equipment, chassis structure, and weight limits because they are the primary number of vehicles on the roadway at any point and time. And this is especially true on the interstates where speed and size control the flow of traffic.
- Chassis Structures Vary
Not all tractor-trailer rigs are designed the same way. Models have a variety of axle combinations and connection systems, ranging from a single axle to triple axles, and even a second trailer being pulled behind the primary combo. They are also designed in varying lengths and an assortment of frames that include:
- Standard flatbeds
- Low-boy haulers
- Multi-level car haulers
- Tankers
- Refrigerated containers
- Box and sliding floor containers
- Weight Limits Vary
One of the most important factors in a trailer load is the actual weight versus the maximum weight. While running with minimal cargo can actually be more dangerous in some instances, trucks that have a single axle are capped at 20,000 lbs and tandem axle trailers are set at 34,000. The total weight cannot exceed 80,000 lbs., which also includes multiple trailer hauling assemblies. And, these longer rigs are only allowed in certain states. According to the experts at Hale Trailer, “Since regulations and permitting varies based on state, it’s best to contact local authorities to ensure your load is compliant and appropriately permitted.”
- All are ELD Equipped
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration now requires that all big-rigs have electronic logging devices installed that give a real time reading of driver hours. This is a safety measure designed to reduce the number of accidents due to driver fatigue, as many shipping companies require their drivers to haul the limit on a daily basis. This is not necessarily a requirement for drivers who are doing a two-day turnaround, but many long-haul truckers will drive the limit in an effort to be prompt on delivery times and keep the rig running as much time as possible. Lack of ELD equipment was once a common cause of accidents because of overworked drivers. In addition, the devices can track driving behavior and location, and they are also the basic technology behind futuristic self-driving trucks.
These are just a few details you must know about Semi Trucks that many other drivers do not always realize, even though shipping companies deal with these trailer designs, load limits, and safety equipment on a regular basis. If you are looking for a semi trailer and live in Pennsylvania, you can try looking for semi trailers available in Allentown, PA. Just make sure you do your research when shopping for trailers.
