New Shipper Liability Legislation

February 15, 2002 marked the effective proclamation date to section 37 (13) of
The Highways and Transportation Act, 1997.

37 (13) If a consignor of goods, or the consignor's agent or employee, knowingly causes a vehicle not owned by the consignor to be loaded with goods or a building, object or contrivance so that when the vehicle operates on a public highway, the operating or moving of the vehicle contravenes section 36 or the regulations made pursuant to clauses 69(1)(n) to (s) or (v) to (au), the consignor and carrier are jointly and severally liable for the contravention. 1997, c.H-3.01, s.37; 2000, c.47, s.9; 2001, c.16,s.

Department of Highways and Transportation believes this legislation will help to protect our Saskatchewan highway infrastructure from overweight vehicles. On April 1, 2002, the department will begin developing and implementing education and enforcement strategies for this purpose.

The department wants to identify the various shipper/consignors who use the trucking industry so we can provide the industry with timely information and updates. If you or your company is interested in receiving this pertinent information, contact the department through the following address.