When must a pilot vehicle follow behind according to the highway traffic act?

A pilot vehicle must follow behind when the overall length of a vehicle and its load exceeds 30 metres, according to the highway traffic act. This provision is in place to ensure safe travel for oversized vehicles. The presence of a pilot vehicle helps to alert other road users to the potential hazards posed by large vehicles that may have difficulty maneuvering, especially in tight spaces or when making turns. The pilot vehicle assists in guiding the oversized load, ensuring that surrounding traffic is aware and can maintain a safe distance. This requirement is fundamental for maintaining road safety and preventing accidents caused by large, unwieldy vehicles.

Other scenarios, such as traveling on urban streets, operating only during the night, or carrying hazardous materials, may require specific regulations or considerations, but they do not uniquely determine the need for a pilot vehicle in the same way that the overall length criterion does. The regulation on length specifically addresses the challenges posed by larger vehicles and the need for extra caution and support in managing their presence on the road.