Pilot Car and Route Surveying Services in Ohio

The Ohio Department of Transportation requires the following certifications and requirements for pilot cars (escort vehicles):

• The Ohio DOT mandates that pilot cars and escort vehicles operating in Ohio have an amber light mounted on the vehicle’s roof. The amber light must strobe or flash and be visible from a 360-degree angle at a distance of at least 500′. 
• The vehicle is required to have a single roof-mounted sign or a front/rear sign (depending on whether it is operating as a lead or chase vehicle) that is no less than five ′ in length and 12′ in height with letters no less than 8″ in height and a minimum 1″ in thickness. The sign must be yellow with black lettering, and the nature of the loaded shipping must be stated, either “OVERSIZE LOAD” or  “WIDE LOAD.” 
• All pilot cars or escort vehicles must be equipped with a CB radio or powerful two-way communication device to constantly communicate with all parties working on the move. 
• Pilot car vehicles must have a handheld paddle sign that states “STOP” on one side and “SLOW” on the other to control traffic. 
• NOTE: It is only our professional opinion that pilot cars also have a minimum of the additional items but are not required:  2 – 5 pound fire extinguishers type A, B, and C. Additionally, a red safety-colored flag with a handle no less than 18″ square, three reflective emergency road triangles or 18″ traffic cones, eight burning road flares, 2 OVERSIZE LOAD banners (yellow with black lettering), and a safety colored (red, orange, yellow or lime green) vest, jacket or shirt (used while directing traffic) are required.