Overloaded trucks are more difficult to manoeuvre and represent a significant risk of accidents. They also accelerate wear and tear on infrastructure and roads and generate significant repair costs for local authorities.
Articles R. 312-1 to R. 312-9 of the French Traffic Code impose limits to be respected concerning:
- the total weight, depending on the type of vehicle and its number of axles;
- the load on each axle, depending on the distance between axles;
- the total weight of the trailer, depending on the weight of the towing vehicle.
Exceptions may be granted, in which case, a prefectural decree must mention the new constraints to be respected (e.g. itinerary, load distribution, speed, signs, etc.).
What if I do not respect the provisions of the Traffic Code mentioned above?
You risk paying a 4th class fine (which can go up to 750€). However, these 4th class fines can be accumulated (decree n° 2011-368 of 4 April 2011).
And, if the weight of the vehicle exceeds the regulatory limits by 5%, the vehicle may be seized.
It is therefore in the interest of both the transporter and the site manager to control and weigh their trucks!