West Virginia Code of State Rules Agency 157 - Highways
West Virginia Code of State Rules
Agency 157 – Highways
Purpose and Scope
Agency 157 governs the management, maintenance, operation, and regulation of highways within the state of West Virginia. It establishes standards and procedures to ensure safe, efficient, and effective use of the state highway system.
Key Areas Covered
1. Highway Maintenance and Operations
The agency sets standards for the maintenance of highways, including routine upkeep, repairs, resurfacing, and snow removal.
Procedures for inspection and reporting highway conditions are outlined to ensure roadways remain safe and passable.
Maintenance responsibilities are clearly assigned, including emergency response to incidents such as accidents or natural disasters affecting highways.
2. Traffic Control and Safety
The agency establishes rules for the placement, maintenance, and removal of traffic control devices (signs, signals, markings).
Guidelines for speed limits, weight limits, and other traffic regulations on state highways are specified to promote safety.
Regulations for the use of highways by special vehicles, such as oversized or overweight loads, are detailed, including permitting requirements.
3. Construction and Improvement Projects
Procedures for the planning, design, and construction of new highways and improvement of existing ones are governed by the agency.
Requirements for contractors working on highway projects include compliance with safety standards and coordination with the agency.
Rules include guidelines on environmental considerations and public notifications during construction.
4. Right-of-Way and Access Control
The agency regulates the acquisition and use of highway right-of-way, including permits for access points such as driveways or commercial entrances.
Rules detail the process for encroachments and how private use or occupation of highway land is managed.
Procedures for the removal of unauthorized structures or obstructions within the highway right-of-way.
5. Vehicle and Load Regulations
Limits on the size, weight, and type of vehicles permitted on highways are established.
The agency administers permits for special transport vehicles needing to exceed regular size or weight limits.
Regulations on load securing and safety equipment necessary for transporting goods on highways.
6. Enforcement and Penalties
The agency specifies enforcement procedures for violations of highway regulations.
Penalties for infractions, such as illegal use of right-of-way or failure to obtain permits, are set forth.
The agency may suspend or revoke permits and take corrective action to ensure compliance.
7. Public Use and Safety
Rules promoting pedestrian safety and non-motorized traffic on or near highways.
Guidelines for public gatherings or events affecting highway use, including permitting and coordination with law enforcement.
Regulations for emergency situations and highway closures.
Summary
Agency 157 creates a structured regulatory framework to:
Maintain and operate West Virginia’s highways safely and efficiently.
Regulate the use of highways by vehicles, pedestrians, and other entities.
Manage highway construction and improvements.
Enforce compliance with highway laws and regulations to protect the public.
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