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tiAAt .■ mil
Page 16
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TruckNetUKs Rikki Chequer discovers that transporting abnormal loads generates a whole Ja host of issues.
One sector of the haulage industry that receives little coverage about its problems is abnormal load escorts. Since the law changed to allow private escorting of special types (STGO) of loads, moving oversize loads has certainly become easier for the vehicles' operators.
Long delays waiting for police escorts have gone. But private abnormal load escort vehicle operators report that since they have very limited (read none) powers to direct other road users, they also have no rights if they need to 'disregard' traffic signs and road markings, making the job fraught with problems.
Some abnormal load escort vehicle operators who use the forums say this isn't the only problem they face. They say the general public is largely unaware of the implications of travelling near an abnormal load. They are also becoming more concerned about the number of incidents of escort vehicles being rear-ended or side-swiped by professional drivers.
To educate drivers, they have posted videos and pictures of incidents on YouTube, and one operator now has a website providing tips for other road users (www.myabnormalload.com). Another operator is considering placing rear-view CCTV cameras in his vehicles so he can upload footage to YouTube, and shame the companies and drivers that place him and his drivers in 'unnecessary danger'.
Given these serious concerns, it is obvious that this is a situation that needs looking at — and fast.