Tuesday Tip - Projected Loads in Vehicle

Summer is upon us and many folks will be out buying lengths of 2'x4', PVC pipe, shelving, trim, and other long items that we need for projects. Sometimes there is a problem with just how long the items are and how much our vehicle can accommodate. The are many laws in the California Vehicle Code that pertain to size, weight and load. These sections apply to all vehicles and not just commercial vehicles and trucks. Here are a few examples of sections that cover violations that we commonly see on the roadway;

• CVC 24604 - Rear Load or Projection Excess 4' Requires Flag or Red Lights. Any load that extends beyond 4' from the rear of the vehicle, measured from the taillights, needs a 12"x12" red flag during the daytime and 2 red lights during darkness.
• CVC 35111 - Passenger Vehicles, No Load May Project Beyond the Line of the Fender on Left Side and No More Than 6" from Right Fender. The picture above depicts a common scenario with items sticking out of the passenger window. In this case, the items were about 2' from the passenger side of the car and would be considered unlawful.
• CVC 35406/35410 - Limit Front and Rear Projections. 3' to front from front bumper and 2/3 wheelbase limit to rear.
• Click HERE for sections regarding covering loads such as sand and gravel.

Use the links to read specific language from the CVC to be clear on these laws. Measure the space available in your vehicle before you make a purchase. Ask a friend to provide a truck or other transportation if needed. Most home centers offer either delivery or truck rental at their shops as well. These sections are in place for all of our safety. Please pay attention to your load lengths and avoid creating a hazard and possibly a citation.

Interesting Responses to Blog Post

One of the latest posts on the Philosophical Cop Police Blog is titled, "What's Wrong With Cops These Days?" The post has generated about 20 responses to date and gives you a little insight into public perception and belief on the topic. You will find some positive responses as well as some responses that target specific areas of Law Enforcement and use of force.

Overall, I am pleased with the development of Law Enforcement over the last two decades. Education and training requirements have been raised, accountability on both an individual and department level is more evident, and I think that more departments interact with the communities that they serve today, more than in decades past.

Laws will be laws; they are just massaged over time to suit technology, trends, need and other factors. The individual officer plays a key role in positive change and effectiveness in any department. Like other police departments, we look for the best people we can and provide them with excellent training and guidance, striving to put competent, thinking, police officers on the street. The training never ends and time plus experience add to how the individual officer grows in their career.

Take a look at the comments and see what you think...

Independence Day 2009

The 4th of July is Independence Day! Have a great holiday and celebrate safely. Remember that all fireworks are illegal to possess or use in the City of Arcadia. HERE is a list of fireworks shows in LA County.

As always, remember to not drink and drive. Report drunk drivers, call 9-1-1.

Fireworks Shows in LA County

HERE is a list of fireworks shows offered in LA County. There are shows throughout the County scheduled from July 2nd through the 4th. Check the link for the complete list. Celebrate safely and attend a professional show.


Remember that all fireworks are illegal to use or possess in the City of Arcadia.

"Tipsy Tow" - Free Tow Offered

Jan's Towing offers a free service known as "Tipsy Tow" throughout the year. Jan's is committed to helping to keep drunk drivers off the road and takes an active role by offering this program to those who have indulged a little too much. With the holiday weekend upon us, take advantage of this offer should the need arise. Jan's can be reached at (626) 334-1383.

Other programs are being offered in surrounding areas this weekend, sponsored by AAA. So, if you are not in Arcadia or another area serviced by Jan's Towing, give AAA a call at (800) 400-4AAA. See this KTLA5 story which offers some safety tips from AAA.

Remember to report drunk drivers, call 9-1-1 and help keep our roads safe!

Alleged ADW at Bar

Officers responded to the "1020 Lounge" at Baldwin and Arcadia Avenue at about 2:30 AM on report of an ADW victim. The victim, a 34 year old Pasadena man, had been at the bar and was asked to leave earlier in the evening by security. While standing outside the bar, he was allegedly struck in the head with a metal object by an unknown bouncer from the location. The victim was treated at a local hospital for his injuries. No other parties were found at the location at time of report.

POLICEPAY DAILY UPDATE: Just How Obscene Are Those California Pensions? Part 3

POLICEPAY DAILY UPDATE: Just How Obscene Are Those California Pensions? Part 3