Highway weight restrictions have been lifted. | Pixabay
Highway weight restrictions have been lifted. | Pixabay
Seasonal weight restrictions on Michigan state highways were lifted May 8 by the Michigan Department of Transportation, the Oakland Press reported.
The state routes -- with "M," "I" or "US" designations -- are still requiring permits for any loads that are exceeding the allowed amount, according to the Oakland Press. Counties throughout the state can have different limits, but typically county restrictions go hand-in-hand with state limits. Drivers should be aware of limits by checking weight limit signs posted along the highways.
Although the restrictions have been lifted, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's executive order is not affected by the lifting of restrictions, according to The Trucker.
Whitmer's executive order expanded the relief of weight, according to The Trucker. It also extended the relief of other delivery restrictions in the state that were shipping essential supplies to aid COVID-19 efforts.
Restrictions are normally placed during the colder seasons in the state and are then lifted later in the year. Michigan usually implements these restrictions from February to May, but the timing depends on the conditions of the roads.
Restrictions are placed on highways in Michigan during these months, as winter frosts make the roads fragile, according to County Road Association of Michigan.
When the frost melts under the roads, it causes the concrete and asphalt roads to become spongy and wet. The trapped water can create an ice layer as well. Heavy loads from truckers aren't supported by highways in these conditions, which can results in cracks in the roads.
The Michigan Department of Transportation lists permit and other information on its website. Truckers can submit permits or check on the status of permits on the Department's website. Truckers with oversized loads or loads that exceed limits can also apply for permits online. For more information on oversized load permits, go to the Michigan Department of Transportation website.
Visit MDOT for more information on the restrictions or call 800-787-8960.
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