Bill changing oversized vehicle permits passes

Permits authorizing overweight and oversized loads and tows will be expanded by a bill passed on final reading April 20.

LB35, introduced by Scottsbluff Sen. John Harms, increases to 210 days the maximum life of a state Department of Roads overweight or overlength permit for hauling loads of grain, sugar beets and other seasonally harvested products. Currently, such permits may be purchased for 30 or 60 days and renewed for a maximum of 120 days per year.

The bill also addresses towing load restrictions.

Current law exempts from standard length and weight limits wrecked or disabled vehicles that, combined, do not exceed 150 feet.

The bill exempts from the 150-feet limitation tows of single vehicles to a place of repair or storage. It also exempts tows of multiple vehicles and permitted oversize vehicles as long as such vehicles are towed to the first and nearest location that can accommodate them. Afterwards, a special single trip permit may be acquired to transport an oversize vehicle.

Towing companies are held severally liable for injuries or damages resulting from the operation of tow trucks while exceeding length, width, height and weight requirements.

Lawmakers approved LB35 on a 46-0 vote.