Weigh Stations & Truck Scales

Commercial Truck Weight Regulations in the U.S.

Weigh stations are checkpoints for large commercial vehicles that are placed periodically on interstates and highways so trucks can pull over and be checked by highway patrol. Primarily, these stations are for the purpose of checking weight limit compliance. To weigh a vehicle, these weigh stations come equipped with truck scales. Depending on the station, this scale may be a type of bridge fixed to concrete where the truck will stop while the weight is measured. More advanced scales will allow truck drivers to keep their trucks in motion while they are being weighed. This is called "weigh in motion," which eases and quickens the process.

What Is Checked at a Weigh Station?

Depending on what state a truck is traveling in, what particular weigh station, and even what time of the day it is, inspections at these weigh stations will differ. However, there will be some standard, routine checks.

What is normally checked at an average weigh station includes:

  • Freight Paperwork – Shows legitimacy for his or her truck and the cargo inside it.
  • Vehicle Paperwork – Directly aimed toward the specifications of the truck, when it was last inspected, how old its tires are. Some stations may even check the truck’s brakes and other equipment.
  • Trucker Logbooks – Because trucker fatigue is such a widespread problem in the industry, the Department of Transportation has imposed strict driving and resting times for truckers nationwide.

All commercial drivers are required under federal regulations to record their driving hours, as well as their resting breaks. Because falling asleep at the wheel and truck driver fatigue is such a widespread problem in the industry, the Department of Transportation (DOT) imposed strict driving and resting times for truckers across the country.

Weight Limits & “Dodging the Scales”

Trucks' massive size and weight makes them more dangerous to drivers than any other vehicle on the road. The federal weight limit for all 18-wheeler trucks is 80,000 lbs., or 40 tons.

Some truckers have what is called an “overweight permit,” but otherwise, truckers are limited to 80,000 lbs. Even under legal weight limits, the average large truck needs 40% more time to brake than a normal vehicle. For these reasons, accountability to weight regulations is vital. In recent years, law enforcement has had an issue with truckers “dodging the scales." Many truckers admit to doing this when they have violated rest requirement or carry too much weight. One officer pulled a truck over for attempting to dodge a weigh station by taking a miles-long detour. The fine was $200 for carrying too much weight, the second fine for that company in two months.

The Common Causes Of Truck Accidents

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Why Weigh Stations Matter

Efforts to make weight station detours illegal have been opposed by the trucking industry nationwide. The Texas Motor Transportation Association, for example, successfully fought a bill in the Texas Senate that would have illegalized dodging the weigh station. Weigh stations are currently the only way for law enforcement to make sure trucks are obeying federal safety regulations. When there is a lack of federal oversight, truckers have the potential to cause serious damage. Asking drivers to work longer hours, make more deliveries, and skip rest breaks can lead to heavier loads and slower reaction times. In 2013, a young woman was killed when a truck struck her vehicle on the highway because it could not stop in time. It was later found to have a load 8,000 lbs. over the legal limit.

Truck Height & Weight Limits

Federal trucking regulations limit the size and weight of a truck; however, truck length limits will vary depending on the state. Per these regulations, a truck can weigh no more than 80,000 pounds and must be no more than 102 inches wide and 14.6 feet tall. Although these limits are in place, there are situations where a truck may seek an oversized permit. The regulations for oversized trucks, including their weight and size limits, vary per state.

How an Oversized Truck Can Cause an Accident

The same factors that may cause a truck accident may also affect an oversized truck; however, these factors are more likely to have an impact on the ability to safely operate the vehicle when it is an oversized commercial big rig. An 80,000 pound truck takes 525 feet to stop when traveling 65 mph. An oversized truck weighing 100,000 pounds will take 25% longer and a truck weighing 120,000 pounds will take 50% longer.

These numbers paint a clear picture of just how dangerous an oversized vehicle may be in an emergency situation, when a truck driver needs to avoid a collision. The sheer weight of an oversized truck may also put additional strain on the braking system and tires; tires may even explode while the truck is traveling at high speeds. When you take into consideration the fact that an oversized truck may be improperly loaded, all of the potential hazards associated with these vehicles are compounded.

Contact Our Leading Trucking Accident Firm

Oversized trucks may present a serious hazard to motorists. If you have been injured in an accident with an oversized truck, you need a competent Houston big rig accident attorney who can fight for you. The trucking company may try to deny liability-even claiming that the accident was your fault. At Arnold & Itkin, we are highly experienced in handling claims involving oversized vehicles. Our understanding of trucking regulations enables us to accurately determine whether a violation has occurred or whether another issue caused the accident.

If you have been hurt in a truck accident, our attorneys can investigate your claim to see what caused your accident. Contact Arnold & Itkin LLP today for a free consultation.

Common Questions

  • Why Hire a Houston Truck Accident Lawyer?

    After a truck accident, insurance and trucking companies prioritize profits over people. They offer low settlements, delay or deny claims, and use legal teams to shift blame. Hiring a top Houston 18-wheeler accident attorney ensures you get the compensation you need, holds negligent companies accountable, and protects your future. Don’t settle for less than you deserve.

  • How Do I Find a Good Houston Truck Accident Lawyer?

    Start by asking friends, family, and coworkers for recommendations, then research online to compare experience and results. Not all truck accident attorneys are the same—you need one with a proven track record in trucking cases and the willingness to take your case to trial if necessary. At Arnold & Itkin, we’ve recovered billions for our clients and never settle for less than they deserve.

  • What Should I Do After a Texas 18-Wheeler Accident?

    Your health comes first—seek immediate medical attention if needed. If possible, take steps at the scene to strengthen your claim. Call law enforcement to file an accident report and keep a copy. Collect the other driver’s information and witness statements. Save all medical records related to your injuries. Get a repair estimate for your vehicle. Lastly, continue seeing a doctor after your discharge to monitor your recovery and document ongoing medical needs.

  • Is It Worth Getting a Houston Truck Accident Lawyer?

    Yes. Truck accidents often cause devastating injuries and financial hardship. A skilled lawyer ensures you get the compensation you need—not just what the insurance company wants to offer. Our Houston truck accident attorneys fight for fair settlements and are prepared to go to trial if necessary. We work to recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses to help our clients rebuild their lives.

  • How Long Does an 18-Wheeler Lawsuit Take?

    The timeline for a truck accident lawsuit varies based on factors like liability disputes, the severity of injuries, and whether a settlement is reached or the case goes to trial. Some cases resolve in months, while others take years. The best way to get an estimate for your case is to consult an experienced Texas truck accident lawyer. At Arnold & Itkin, we investigate accidents quickly, determine liability, and prepare every case for trial to secure the best possible outcome as efficiently as possible.

  • How Are 18-Wheeler Accidents Different from Car Accidents?

    Truck accident cases are far more complex than standard car accidents due to the sheer size and weight of 18-wheelers, which cause greater damage and more severe injuries. Unlike car accidents, trucking cases often involve multiple liable parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, and manufacturers. These cases also require knowledge of federal and state trucking regulations, making it essential to work with a Houston truck accident attorney who has experience handling complex claims and holding powerful trucking companies accountable.

  • How Common Are Fatal Truck Accidents?

    Fatal truck accidents remain a significant concern in the United States. In 2022, 5,936 people lost their lives in crashes involving large trucks, marking a 2% increase from 2021 and a 49% rise over the past decade. Notably, 70% of these fatalities were occupants of other vehicles, 19% were truck occupants, and 11% were non-occupants, such as pedestrians and bicyclists. Texas, in particular, has experienced a high number of such incidents, with 810 deaths resulting from large truck crashes in 2022. This underscores the critical need for stringent safety measures and regulations to protect all road users from the dangers associated with large truck operations.

  • What Is the Statute of Limitations for a Truck Accident Case in Texas?

    In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a truck accident lawsuit is generally two years from the date of the accident, as outlined in Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003. This applies to personal injury and wrongful death claims, but exceptions exist. If the claim involves a government entity, a notice of claim may be required within six months. If injuries were not immediately apparent, the clock may start from the date of discovery. Additionally, for minors or incapacitated victims, the deadline may be extended. Missing the statute of limitations can bar you from seeking compensation, so it’s critical to act quickly and consult a Texas truck accident lawyer to protect your rights.

  • How Does Failing to Properly Maintain Trucks Lead to Accidents?

    Failing to properly maintain trucks leads to accidents by increasing the risk of mechanical failures that make the vehicle unsafe to operate. Worn brakes can prevent a truck from stopping in time, underinflated or worn tires can lead to blowouts, and faulty steering systems can cause a driver to lose control. Additionally, malfunctioning lights reduce visibility, increasing the likelihood of collisions, especially at night. Neglecting routine inspections and repairs puts both truck drivers and other motorists at serious risk. Federal regulations require trucking companies to conduct regular maintenance, but when they cut corners to save time and money, lives are put in danger.

  • Who Is Liable for a Truck Accident?

    Liability for a truck accident can involve multiple parties, depending on the cause of the crash. The truck driver may be responsible if negligence—such as speeding, distracted driving, or fatigue—played a role. The trucking company can be liable if it failed to follow safety regulations, pressured drivers to exceed legal hours, or neglected vehicle maintenance. Manufacturers may be accountable for defective parts, while maintenance providers could be at fault for improper servicing. Additionally, cargo loaders might bear responsibility if unsecured or overloaded cargo contributed to the accident. Because truck accident liability is often complex, a thorough investigation is essential to identify all responsible parties and pursue full compensation.

  • Where Do You Handle Truck Accident Cases?

    We handle cases nationwide, with our offices in Houston, Dallas, Midland, and Baton Rouge. Our help extends to clients in Texas, Louisiana, New Mexico, and beyond, including in cities like Austin, Corpus Christi, Ft. Worth, San Angelo, and Tyler. To learn more if we can help you, we encourage you to call today!

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