In early 90’s, National Highway Safety Administration regulating the Department of Transportation (DOT) was up with a new federal law dealing with reflective tapes on trailers, trucks and semi’s. If the truck weigh’s more than 10,000 pounds and which are 80 inch wide falls under the category and should maintain reflective tapes all over the truck to avoid night crashes. Due to the poor visibility and weather, the numbers gradually increases. Additionally, it also specifically mentioned about the positioning requirements as they do play a role.
Approved Tapes by DOT:
Right after the law was passed, two types of approved DOT reflective tape came into existence. One with red and white striped tape used on back and bottom of the trailer sides, with two inch of wideness. The next type is white or silver reflective tape, sticking them on the top of the truck’s back end. However, you will be able to find too many varieties of tapes in the market but the tape meeting DOT requirements will have “DOT C2” code embed upon on the label.
Rectangular Trailers:
If your trailer is shaped in rectangular, you need to go with red and white tape, running along the entire back and bottom of the trailer, including the rear bar as well. These tapes are required to show their presence along the sides, back and front of the vehicle, which can be broken into segments covering at least 50% of the total length.
However, the top of the rectangular trailers should be covered with white or silver tapes along with the corners of the back, forming an L shape and each strip should go long as 12 inches.
Circular Trailers:
Trucks with circular shape and other trucks share the same requirement when it comes to tapes. These circular trailers carry gas and other liquid material, having the tape run along the back and the sides of the truck. As the top is circular in shape, the white or silver tape must be placed at the highest outer portion of the top.
Trucks without Trailers:
Some trucks don’t accompany trailers but still with the weight and width limitations, reflective tapes are a real requirement. Red and white tapes is required to cover the entire length just above both the mud flaps and the silver or white tape should run along the corners of the back of the truck in L shape. This positioning can change as per the truck and trucker’s requirement.
Taking these measures, accidents can be avoided and also bring down the number of under ride accidents. With this, we also like to remind you, the tax season is over. If you have not filed your form 2290 yet, you can do minimum penalties for the first month only at tax2290.com. So make haste and file your return now. It’s never too late.