Sept. 24 – “Michigan trains,” the many-axled rigs weighing up to 82 tons and unique to the state, would be a thing of the past if a bill introduced in the state Senate last week passes. However, reports the Associated Press, the move has failed before, and with the legislative session ending in two months, it’s not likely to succeed.
The proposal would cut the maximum allowable truck weight from 82 tons to 40 tons. Backers say this would increase truck maneuverability and lessen their lethal effect in a crash.
“Monster trucks are a serious safety hazard because they cannot stop as quickly as a 40-ton truck,” said state Sen. Arthur Miller, a sponsor of the legislation. One opponent points out that such a move could make state roads even less safe and more congested by forcing more trucks onto the roads.