Florida Class E Knowledge ExamFlorida Road RulesMedium
You are driving on a Florida multi-lane highway. You notice a vehicle ahead is displaying a red flag at the end of its load, which extends 4 feet beyond the vehicle's rear. According to Florida law, what does this indicate about the load?
- AThe load extends too far and is illegal to transport on public roads.
- BThe load requires special permits and an escort vehicle for safe transport.
- CThe load is improperly secured and should be reported to law enforcement.
- DThe load is properly marked for its length and is within legal limits for daytime travel.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. The load is properly marked for its length and is within legal limits for daytime travel.
Florida law (F.S. 316.228) states that loads extending 4 feet or more beyond the rear of a vehicle must display a red flag (at least 18 inches square) during daylight hours. This marking makes the load visible and indicates it is legally transported with proper warning.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A load extending 4 feet can be legal if properly marked.
- B. Only extremely long or wide loads typically require special permits and/or escorts, not generally a 4-foot overhang with a flag.
- C. The red flag indicates proper marking, not improper securing.
Projecting Load Warning (Daytime)
In Florida, loads extending 4 feet or more beyond the rear of a vehicle must be marked with a red flag at least 18 inches square during daylight hours.
- Applies to loads extending 4 feet or more.
- Requires a red flag (18"x18" minimum).
- This is for daytime travel only; different rules apply at night.
Memory trick: Red flag in day, red light at night, keeps everyone safe and in sight.