§ 39-12-22 — Permissible loads - Exceptions

When any motor truck, truck tractor, or trailer is operated upon the public highways of this
state carrying a load in excess of the maximum prescribed under the provisions of sections
39-12-03, 39-12-05, and 39-12-05.3 or other maximum weight limitations prescribed by law, the
load must be reduced or shifted to within such maximum limitations before being permitted to
operate on any public highway of this state; provided, however, that any such vehicle carrying a
load of livestock is exempt from the limitations prescribed in section 39-12-05.3, relating to the
carrying capacity of any wheel, tire, axle, or group of axles when excessive weight is caused by
a shifting of the weight of the livestock. All material unloaded as required by this section must be
cared for by the owner or operator of such vehicle at the risk of such owner or operator.