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Frost laws were placed on roads throughout Lapeer County at 12:01 a.m. today (Wednesday.) Vehicles 10,000 pounds or more must reduce axle loads by 35%. Speed must also be decreased to 35 mph for the heavier weighing trucks.

The restrictions preserve the county roads during the upheaval of spring.

"The frost raises the roads and they heave," said Lapeer County Road Sheriff's deputy Orrie Smith, the road commission motor carrier officer. "Excessive weight this time of year does damage. Roads become wavy, and crack and crumble."

The law conserves roads, but is financially burdensome to some companies who must drive to destinations with smaller cargo. Milk haulers, farmers and utility companies are exempt. Garbage companies purchase a permit that authorizes them to travel with heavier loads. Fees charged for the expensive license are used to offset damages done by the heavyweight vehicles.

Spring time weight and speed limitations are placed in every county throughout the state at varying dates.

"Each county determines their own time," Smith said. "For instance, up north where it's colder, they'd have laws later. Most of the counties to the west of us have already placed their frost laws."

The county weigh masters will be enforcing restrictions and violators will be fined from 3 cents to $1 for each pound they're overweight, said Smith.

Frost laws will be in place until the Lapeer County Road Commission feels the secondary roads have settled. Phone the 24 hour frost law hotline at (810) 664-6218 or visit www.micountyroads.org. for updated information.

Susan Younger may be reached at (810) 664-0811, Ext. 8122 or susan.younger@lapeergroup.com