Escort vehicles and pilot cars perform their critical duty of transporting heavy loads vigorously. They have the necessary signage and lighting to make themselves visible to fellow road users.
However, other equipment is needed to perform different operations while on duty. That makes pilot cars ready for every kind of condition that occurs during transportation.
Here, we will explore the list of pilot car equipment with requirements dictated per State. We’ll discuss them in detail with the benefits of having them.
Vehicle Used as Pilot Car
Let’s start by describing the vehicle that can serve as a pilot car. The weight requirement depends upon the State. For example, some states stipulate that any vehicle should be between 2000 and 26000 lbs, while others stipulate a minimum weight.
There are other wheel-based requirements, e.g., New York stipulates that the vehicle has a 100-inch wheelbase.
Pilot Car Equipment Checklist
There are multiple equipment requirements for escort vehicles. Different states have different requirements for escort, such as in some states, 2000 lbs minimum weight is specified.
The other states focus on the visibility of the surroundings for the driver at 360 degrees from the driving seat. Panel trucks or cargo are not allowed in such cases.
After meeting the prerequisites, the escort vehicle will carry it.
- Signs.
- Flags (vehicle flags and a flag for emergency traffic control, described below).
- Warning lights.
- Full-size spare tire and tools for changing.
- Fire extinguisher.
- Mirrors.
- Hard hats & safety vests.
- STOP/SLOW paddle.
- Cones and reflectors.
- Flashlight and cone.
- First aid kit.
- Spare parts/fluids.
- Measuring pole.
- Radio.
Signs
States typically require several Signs. The first is an oversized load sign with black letters on a yellow background. The escort and load vehicles house modern electronic technology in their bumpers, including crash avoidance systems. The second sign pertains to displaying the oversized load on the top of the pilot car.
Flags
The escort vehicle must display warning flags. Some states mandate two flags, while others demand four. As the State demands, the flags should be 12 by 12 or 18 by 18 inches.
Warning Lights
In addition to fully functioning headlights, taillights, brake lights, and emergency flashers, the escort vehicle must have at least one amber warning light. The warning light should be visible from 500 feet, rotate, and flash 360 degrees.
The escort vehicle may display warning lights and signs on its sides at all times.
Spare Tire
Having a full-size spare tire on hand is not just recommended but mandated by numerous states. A lug wrench, jack, and other tools are also necessary to change the tire.
Fire Extinguisher
Most States require pilot cars to carry fire extinguishers. The fire extinguishers must be filled and located near to be readily accessible.
Mirrors
Outside rear-view mirrors on both sides of the escort vehicle are needed. Curved mirrors, convex, and fisheye are often helpful.
Convex mirrors are used for wider vision but also show objects farther than they are. For more comfortable driving, adjust the seat so that your palm aligns with the top of the steering wheel.
Hardhats and Safety Vests
Pilot truck drivers are required always to wear a hard hat. Orange hat color is common. It has divided impact protection into Type I and Type II categories. Type I hardhats mitigate blows to the top of the head; for example, a tool falling from above. We recommend Pilot cars to use Type II hardhats for their versatility.
Stop/Slow Paddle
Most States require pilot cars to carry at least one 18-inch stop/slow paddle. The paddle should have a reflective surface and a standard shape, e.g., octagonal, and the color of the STOP side must be red with white letters, while the SLOW side must be orange with black letters.
Reflective Cones and/or Triangles
Three 36-inch reflective traffic cones are required to alert other motorists in an emergency. It would also help if you always had roadside flares that can burn for at least fifteen minutes.
Flashlight/Traffic Wand
An operational flashlight for emergencies is necessary.
The wand should be LED and visible from a 500-foot distance. It must be waterproof and have a strong grip. The on-off switch should be visible night or day.
First-Aid Kit
A first-aid kit should include personal belongings and medication, emergency numbers, gauze and tape, compress dressings and adhesive bandages, antibiotic and hydrocortisone ointment, aspirin, non-latex gloves, breathing barriers, cold compresses, emergency blankets, thermometer, tweezers, and scissors.
Spare/Replacement Equipment
Pilot cars should have extra bulbs, radio and flashlight batteries, fuses, hoses, belts, and fluids (coolant, oil, and windshield washer fluid) on hand. The escort car needs to have the tools required for small roadside repairs.
Height Pole
It is a device used to measure vertical clearance. A height pole is needed when escorting loads over 14 feet 6 inches tall. Use it in a manner that does not hinder the pilot car’s ability to safely operate the vehicle and communication devices.
Radio/Communication Equipment
Safe communication is vital for successful oversize load movement. Most states require two-way radios or communication devices that can transmit and receive signals for at least half a mile and be compatible with load drivers and other pilot car operators.
Although many load drivers, including those with oversized/overweight loads and escorts, need to communicate constantly with operators, the best method of communication remains the CB radio, despite its potential for distraction.
Spare Batteries
You are required to have spare batteries for your flashlight and other uses.
What should you do with used pilot car equipment?
Used pilot car equipment can be purchased online or from other operators at lower prices than new equipment.
It’s important to avoid buying used first aid kits and thoroughly inspect any used equipment for signs of damage, discoloration, or wear that could compromise its operation.
FAQs
Why is it important to stick to the pilot car equipment requirements?
Sticking to the pilot car equipment requirements is essential to ensure safety, regulatory compliance, liability mitigation, and professionalism.
Are there variations in pilot car equipment requirements in different states?
Yes, there are variations depending on the local regulations and route conditions.
Has there been any change in pilot car equipment requirements over time?
State regulations, technological advancements, and industry requirements can change equipment requirements.
Conclusion
We have mentioned the pilot car equipment and requirement in detail. They ensure the safe and efficient transportation of heavy loads on major highways and roads.
Each item is critical in enhancing regulatory compliance and standards in the escort service system. Every piece of equipment, even the smallest, should not be neglected. The pilot car’s critical role demands minute caution and diligence at work.
