To operate a pilot car in Utah, you'll need to obtain certification through the Utah Department of Transportation.
The Utah Pilot Car Certification Program requires applicants to pass a written examination to demonstrate their knowledge of state regulations.
Applicants must also provide proof of liability insurance and pass a background check.
In Utah, pilot cars are required to escort oversized and overweight loads on certain highways, including Interstate 15 and Interstate 80.
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Pilot Car Regulations and Requirements
Pilot cars in Utah must have a minimum wheelbase of 96 inches and a gross weight not exceeding 12,000 pounds. They must also have a roof-mounted yellow sign with black lettering 8 inches tall and 1 inch thick, measuring 5 feet long and 10 inches tall.
Each side of the sign must have two 1,000 candlepower, strobe light-bar-mounted rotating amber lights at least 6 inches tall with 360-degree visibility from a minimum of 500 feet. This is to ensure visibility and safety on the road.
Pilot cars must also come equipped with a CB radio or 2-way communication device to maintain constant contact with the driver truck towing the shipment at all times.
Here are the specific requirements for pilot cars in Utah:
- Length: 53 feet.
- Width: 8 feet 6 inches.
- Height: 14 feet.
- Weight: 80,000 pounds gross vehicle weight.
- Overhang: 3 feet at the front; 6 feet off the rear.
Loads over 120 feet long require one escort vehicle, while loads over 14 feet wide require one escort. Loads over 16 feet wide require two escorts, and loads over 17 feet 6 inches require two civilian escorts plus Highway Patrol and notification of utility companies.
Safety and Escort Vehicles
Pilot and escort vehicles in Utah should not exceed 12,000 pounds in gross weight.
The drivers of these vehicles must complete a certified training program.
Each vehicle must have a minimum wheelbase of 96 inches.
A roof-mounted yellow "OVERSIZE LOAD" sign with black lettering 8 inches tall and 1 inch thick is required.
The sign must measure 5 feet long and 10 inches tall, with each side having two 1,000 candlepower, strobe light-bar-mounted rotating amber lights at least 6 inches tall with 360-degree visibility from a minimum of 500 feet.
A CB radio or 2-way communication device is necessary for constant contact with the driver truck towing the shipment.
Loads over 120 feet long require one escort vehicle.
Loads over 14 feet wide require one escort, while loads over 16 feet wide require two escorts.
Loads over 16 feet high require two escorts, with the front car carrying a height pole.
Loads with overhangs exceeding 20 feet require one escort.
The following table summarizes the escort requirements based on load size:
Online Course
If you're looking to get certified as a pilot car driver in Utah, taking an online course is a great place to start. The Utah Department of Transportation recommends that aspiring pilot car drivers complete a training program that covers the state's specific regulations and requirements.
You can find online courses that are specifically designed to meet Utah's pilot car certification requirements, which include a minimum of 8 hours of training and a final exam. Some courses may also offer additional resources, such as study guides and practice exams, to help you prepare.
The cost of an online course can vary, but many providers offer affordable options that fit within a tight budget. For example, some courses may cost as little as $50, while others may range from $100 to $200.
By taking an online course, you can complete the required training from the comfort of your own home, at your own pace. This can be especially helpful if you have a busy schedule or prefer to learn in a self-paced environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need a CDL to be a pilot car driver?
A CDL may be required by some transport companies, but it's not always necessary to become a pilot car driver. Typically, a high school diploma or GED and a valid driver's license are the minimum qualifications.
What equipment does a pilot car need?
A pilot car typically requires several essential items, including warning flags, warning lights, a spare tire, fire extinguisher, mirrors, hardhats, safety vests, and a STOP/SLOW paddle. These items help ensure safe escorting of oversized loads or vehicles.
What insurance is needed for a pilot car?
For a pilot car, you'll need commercial automotive insurance to protect against vehicle damages, as well as professional errors and omissions (E&O) insurance to safeguard against liability for accidents or damages beyond vehicle coverage.
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