Tipp of the Week-Oversized loads

Hello, Tipp City! Marc the Cop here,

I was traveling to London last week. As I made my way south on Interstate 75, I came upon an oversized load being hauled by a semi-truck. 

This oversized load appeared to be a crane or its frame. There was a pilot car ahead, and a follow car behind the load, and one of our Ohio State Highway Patrol Troopers escorted the rig, with the light bar active.

As we traversed Interstate 75 southbound to eastbound, the escort motorcade moved to the right lane, also known as lane three. 

Motorists traveling our interstates have likely noticed large, slow-moving vehicles carrying massive equipment, often accompanied by flashing lights and a State Patrol escort. 

• These oversized loads may be transporting construction machinery, bridge components, wind turbine blades, or industrial equipment. While they may seem out of place on a high-speed roadway, these loads are carefully regulated, and understanding the rules for driving around them helps keep everyone safe.

• An oversized load is any vehicle or combination of vehicles that exceeds standard legal limits for width, height, length, or weight. Because these loads have limited maneuverability and require extra space, state law mandates special permits and, in many cases, a State Patrol escort. On the interstate, the escort’s role is critical: managing traffic, coordinating lane control, and preventing dangerous passing situations.

• When you approach an oversized load with an escort, slow down and remain alert. These vehicles often travel below the posted speed limit and may slow further when approaching overpasses, lane merges, or construction zones. Leave plenty of space between your car and the load. Following too closely limits visibility and reaction time if the load brakes suddenly or shifts lanes.

• On the interstate, do not assume you can pass simply because there are multiple lanes. Passing an oversized load is permitted only when it is clearly safe, and the State Patrol escort allows it. Escorts may temporarily block lanes, pace traffic, or signal drivers to remain behind the load. If an escort vehicle is positioned behind or alongside the load, it is a strong indication that passing is restricted.

• State Patrol escorts have legal authority to control traffic flow. If an escort signals you to slow down, change lanes, or stop, you must comply—even if it conflicts with standard traffic patterns or posted signs. Ignoring an escort’s instructions is not only illegal but can result in severe crashes at interstate speeds.

• Unlike local roads, interstate travel may involve rolling slowdowns, in which traffic is intentionally reduced to allow an oversized load to navigate bridges, overhead signs, or tight clearances safely. Escorts may temporarily close one or more lanes. Stay patient and remain in your lane until directed otherwise.

• High speeds combined with impatience can be deadly around oversized loads. Avoid using your phone, weaving through traffic, or cutting in front of the lane after passing. These vehicles require long stopping distances, and sudden lane changes can put you directly in a blind spot.

• Oversized loads support vital industries that benefit our communities, from road construction to energy development. When traveling on the interstate with a State Patrol escort present, your cooperation is essential. Slow down, follow instructions, and allow extra time for your trip. A brief delay is a small price to pay for everyone arriving home safely.

As always, drive courteously, stay alert, and help keep our highways safe—one mile at a time.

The 9 PM routine is a nightly reminder for residents to remove valuables from their vehicles, lock their vehicle doors, secure their residences, turn on exterior lights, and activate all alarms and security systems. 

That is all for this week! Please be safe and care for one another. 

I'll see you in church on Sunday!

Sgt. Marc Basye (Ret.)

Do you have a suggestion for the Tip of the Week? Your input is valuable to us. You can email me at Marcthecop@tippgazette.com! The opinions and statements in this column are those of the author, who is not affiliated with any law enforcement agency. This column is for entertainment purposes only. Persons referred to may be fictional for comedic purposes only.