OAR 734-070-0060
Pilot Vehicle Operator Traffic Control

(1)

Movement of certain oversize loads may require traffic stoppage or other traffic control methods to provide for safe passage of the load. In specified areas where conditions may require traffic control to ensure safe operations with minimal delay to the traveling public, a pilot vehicle operator, certified in traffic control, may direct traffic flow.

(2)

Variance permits shall specify required procedures and areas where traffic control by a certified pilot vehicle operator is allowed in lieu of certified flagging.

(3)

A pilot vehicle operator must be certified to direct traffic as described in section (1) of this rule. All of the following apply to pilot vehicle operator traffic control certification:

(a)

A pilot vehicle operator must attend and satisfactorily complete ODOT training related to directing traffic flow;

(b)

The training shall include procedures that provide a process to close a section of highway for the safe passage of an oversize load;

(c)

Successful completion of refresher training is required every three years after initial certification; and

(d)

Proof of certification must be carried, and made available upon request by law enforcement, when conducting operations under this rule.

(4)

When operations are conducted as specified in section (1) of this rule:

(a)

At a minimum, a front and rear pilot vehicle are required;

(b)

The pilot vehicle designated as lead pilot vehicle shall be equipped with a sign that reads “STOP AHEAD.” The “STOP AHEAD” sign (number OW21-1 in the ODOT “Sign Policy & Guidelines for the State Highway System,” which is available from the Department) shall be:

(A)

Mounted above the roofline of the pilot vehicle;

(B)

Constructed to ODOT specifications for Type Y5 signs;

(C)

Kept clean, legible and mounted adequately to afford full view to oncoming traffic; and

(D)

Displayed only during operations conducted pursuant to this rule.

(c)

The pilot vehicle designated as rear pilot vehicle shall be equipped to stop oncoming traffic using a handheld stop/slow paddle that is a minimum of 18 inches across; and:

(A)

Has internal lighting as listed on the ODOT qualified product list, which is available from the Department; or

(B)

Is faced with wide angle prismatic sheeting.

(d)

Spacing interval requirements are not applicable to operations conducted under this rule; and

(e)

When the oversize load movement through the specified area is completed, the pilot vehicles shall resume their normal signage and positioning.

Source: Rule 734-070-0060 — Pilot Vehicle Operator Traffic Control, https://secure.­sos.­state.­or.­us/oard/view.­action?ruleNumber=734-070-0060.

Last Updated

Jun. 8, 2021

Rule 734-070-0060’s source at or​.us