(A) The limitations regarding length of vehicles and loads stated in Sections 56-5-4070 and 56-5-4080 do not apply to a load upon a pole trailer, longwood trailer, or self-propelled pole carrier when transporting poles or logs.

(B) During daylight hours only, the limitations regarding length of vehicles and loads stated in Sections 56-5-4070 and 56-5-4080 do not apply to a load upon a pole trailer, longwood trailer, or self-propelled pole carrier when transporting pipes or structural material which cannot be dismembered.

(C) Between 2:00 a.m. and thirty minutes past sunset, the limitations regarding length of loads stated in Section 56-5-4080 do not apply to loads of iron, steel, and concrete articles up to sixty feet in length carried on a fifty-three foot long flat-bed trailer so long as:

(1) the vehicle is traveling upon or within five miles of the South Carolina Truck Network as defined by regulation of the Department of Transportation;

(2) the load does not extend more than three feet six inches beyond the front of the bed of the trailer;

(3) the load does not extend more than four feet beyond the rear of the bed of the trailer;

(4) a flashing amber strobe light and a red flag as required by Section 56-5-4630 are attached to any overhanging rear load; and,

(5) the vehicle's headlights, taillights, and any other exterior lights are on at all times while traveling upon the highways of this State.

(D) A pole, log, pipe, or other material exceeding eighty feet in length may not be transported unless a permit has been first obtained as authorized in Section 57-3-130.

(E) The provisions of this section do not apply to a pole trailer or self-propelled pole carrier operated by a utility company when transporting a pole to replace a damaged one.

HISTORY: 1962 Code Section 46-659; 1952 Code Section 46-659; 1949 (46) 466; 1956 (49) 1689; 1972 (57) 2270; 1991 Act No. 122, 1996 Act No. 425, Section 4; 1998 Act No. 333, Section 4.