The National Electric Code

Frequently we see losses, especially during road paving season where the insured tops a bridge or in this case a electric conductor. Most insurance carriers simply pay for the losses and many times the trucker is not liable. Here is why:

Truckers are typically allowed ( depending on the state) to be able to haul a load that measures 16'6" if traveling on a non-restricted highway. The National Electric Code requires vertical clearance from the ground service conductors have to have a minimum clearance of 18 feet. Many installers do not follow the rules and as such if a service conductor were hit that was less than this height, the trucker would not be legally liable.

When roads are paved, sometimes they are not scraped and as such the distance from the road to the bridges or overhangs are reduced. This leads to more claims where a trailer tops the structure. Do not always assume your insured is legally liable especially on a non-restricted highway.