What Are The States' Requirements for Escort Vehicles or Pilot Cars?

Handling cargo is a challenging operation in and of itself, requiring many laws to be followed to ensure the safety of your company’s drivers and your load. As a result, Simplex Group recommends that you examine the rules for pilot/escort cars in the state where your firm works or proposes to operate in order to avoid penalties. Escort vehicles or pilot cars’ requirements are generally the same in most states, but here is what you should know.

General Requirements

According to Texas laws, a P/EVO must report to the public when the following situations occur:

• An authorized vehicle must cross a small bridge or roadway’s middle line.
• Any turning maneuvers that require the authorized vehicle to proceed in the opposite traffic lanes is permitted.
• An allowed vehicle slows down to cross beneath a low overhead object or across a bridge.
• The presence of an authorized vehicle causes an unexpected and unusual traffic pattern.

P/EVO Certification Requirements

Regarding the attributions of the operator, the law requires the following:

• P/EVO must be at least 18 years old, with certain jurisdictions requiring them to be 21.
• P/EVO certification is now required in twelve states.
• Some states accept certificates issued by other states. However, several states, like New York, do not accept other state certificates and only allow P/EVO certified individuals to operate inside their borders.
• Even though P/EVO certification isn’t needed in your state, it’s a good idea for P/EVOs to complete a Driver Improvement Course. Completion of the courses frequently qualifies the operator for cheaper insurance rates, in addition to improving driving and safety abilities.

P/EVO Skill Requirements

In terms of general skills a truck driver that operates a pilot or escort vehicle must have, the law mentions the following:

• Understanding the basic needs and safety measures of truck driving;
• Increased communication skills; A Citizens Band (CB) radio is the recommended form of communication. It’s more convenient to use than a mobile phone, and the truck driver and other P/EVOs engaged will get it.
• Every three to five years, all P/EVOs, especially those over the age of 55, should consider completing a driver improvement or defensive driving course. The American Automobile Association’s (AAA) Roadwise program is an example. Completing such a course may also qualify you for insurance premium savings.
• Any badge, shield, emblem, or uniform of color or design that may be mistaken for a police enforcement badge, logo, or uniform is forbidden for P/EVOs.
• Before embarking on any excursion, P/EVOs should be physically healthy, intellectually aware, and well-rested. For safe traffic control activities, it’s vital to have good hearing, eyesight, and muscular agility.

Equipment Requirements

According to Texas transportation laws, every P/EVO should be equipped with:

• Two flashing amber lights or one spinning amber beacon with a diameter of not less than eight inches mounted to the roof of an escort flag vehicle.
• The words “OVERSIZE” or “WIDE LOAD” must be displayed on the roof of an escort flag vehicle and the car’s front and/or rear.
• Warning flags are at least 12-inches square and composed of red or orange fluorescent material.
• Any allowed vehicle taller than 17 feet must have a front escort flag truck with a non conductive metal height pole to precisely measure the impediments above.

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