Access free from the legislation.gov.uk website.
The Road Vehicles (Authorised Weight) Regulations 1998 is a UK law that sets out the maximum weight limits for vehicles using public roads. Some of the key provisions of the regulations include:
– The establishment of maximum gross weight limits for different types of vehicles, including lorries, buses, and trailers, based on their number of axles and other factors
– The requirement for vehicles to display their maximum authorised weight on their number plate, and for operators to ensure that their vehicles do not exceed this limit
– The regulation of special types of vehicles, such as abnormal loads and agricultural vehicles, which may have different weight limits and require special permits or escorts when being transported on public roads
– The provision of exemptions and special arrangements for certain types of vehicles, such as emergency vehicles, military vehicles, and vehicles used for road maintenance.
Overall, the Road Vehicles (Authorised Weight) Regulations 1998 aim to ensure that vehicles using public roads do not exceed safe weight limits, which can help to reduce damage to roads and bridges, improve safety for other road users, and protect the environment.