05/08/2025
Your Action Plan: What to Do When You See an Oversize Convoy
➡️See the Lights, Assess the Risk: As soon as you see flashing lights, slow down. If you see purple lights, recognise you are approaching an extremely wide load (over 5m) and be prepared to stop.
➡️Read the Sign to Know Where the Load Is: Is the load ahead of or behind the pilot vehicle? This will help you anticipate where you need to focus your attention.
➡️Be Prepared to Pull Over and Stop: For any oversize convoy, but especially one with purple lights, you may be required to pull completely off the road to allow it to pass. Be ready to do this safely and promptly. The pilot may guide you with hand signals, stop paddle, or wand.
➡️Be Patient: Getting frustrated is dangerous. The convoy is moving as fast as it safely can. The crew will let traffic pass when it is safe to do so. A few minutes of delay is a small price for road safety.
➡️Never Overtake Unless Directed or Clearly Safe: Do not attempt to pass a convoy unless you are explicitly directed to do so by the rear pilot vehicle or you are absolutely certain you have a long, clear stretch of road and can do so without endangering yourself, the convoy, or oncoming traffic. Always follow the directions of the pilot—they have the best understanding of the situation.
By understanding these official rules, you play a vital role in keeping our roads safe for everyone. Stay alert, be patient, and share the road safely.
You're driving along a state highway when you see flashing lights ahead. It's a pilot vehicle, tasked with guiding a load of enormous size—perhaps a house section, industrial machinery, or a wind turbine blade—along our roads.