Sharing the Road Safely: Proper Etiquette When You See an Oversize Load & Escort Vehicles

If you’ve ever driven past an oversize load accompanied by pilot or escort vehicles, you may have wondered what the safest way is to interact with that convoy. Oversize loads don’t move like normal traffic, and pilot escort vehicles are there for one reason: to keep everyone safe.

At NEGA Pilot Escort Vehicles, we spend a lot of time watching how civilian traffic reacts around escorted loads. Most drivers mean well — but a few simple etiquette tips can make a big difference for safety, efficiency, and stress levels on the road.

Why Oversize Loads Require Escorts

Oversize loads may be:

• Wider than a standard lane

• Taller than typical overhead clearances

• Longer than normal turning radiuses allow

• Heavier, requiring longer stopping distances

Escort vehicles help manage traffic flow, warn motorists of upcoming hazards, and communicate with the load driver about lane changes, bridges, curves, and clearance issues. When civilian drivers understand how to respond, everyone benefits.

What Civilian Drivers SHOULD Do

1. Slow Down and Stay Alert

When you see flashing amber lights, “Oversize Load” signs, or escort vehicles, reduce your speed and pay attention. These movements often require sudden stops, wide turns, or lane positioning that may not be obvious at first glance.

2. Follow the Escort’s Guidance

Escort vehicles may use:

• Lane positioning

• Hand signals

• CB/radio coordination

• Slow rolling traffic control

If an escort vehicle is slowing traffic or positioning itself in a lane, there’s a reason — trust that guidance.

3. Give Extra Space

Oversize loads need:

• More room to turn

• More distance to stop

• More lane width than a standard vehicle

Maintain a safe following distance and avoid crowding the load or escort vehicles.

4. Be Patient

These moves are carefully planned and permitted. A few extra minutes of patience helps ensure the load — and everyone around it — arrives safely.

What Civilian Drivers SHOULD NOT Do

1. Do Not Pass Unless Clearly Directed

Passing an oversize load without guidance can be extremely dangerous. Escort vehicles may be controlling traffic because of:

• Oncoming traffic

• Narrow bridges

• Limited shoulder space

• Upcoming turns or obstacles

If it’s safe to pass, the escort will help create that opportunity.

2. Don’t Cut In Between the Escort and the Load

The escort vehicle and load operate as a team. Cutting between them breaks communication and creates a serious safety risk.

3. Avoid Sudden Braking or Lane Changes

Oversize loads cannot react quickly. Sudden maneuvers by civilian vehicles increase the risk of accidents.

4. Don’t Assume the Escort Is “Just Another Truck”

Escort vehicles are actively communicating, watching traffic patterns, and monitoring hazards. Respect their role and visibility on the road.

Why This Matters

Every oversize move involves:

• Careful planning

• Permits and routing

• Coordination with DOT regulations

• Responsibility for public safety

When civilian drivers follow proper etiquette, it:

• Reduces accidents and near misses

• Keeps traffic moving more smoothly

• Protects infrastructure

• Makes the road safer for everyone

A Shared Responsibility

Oversize loads are essential to construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure — from trusses and equipment to bridge components and industrial materials. Sharing the road responsibly helps keep these critical deliveries moving safely and efficiently.

At NEGA Pilot Escort Vehicles, we appreciate the drivers who slow down, pay attention, and give these moves the respect they deserve.

Thank you for helping us keep Georgia’s roads safe.