and only 10 percent is in good condition.10 By some estimates, over 60 percent of the federal

system is in poor condition (Castillo). Moreover, the quality of maintenance along non-federal

roads varies considerably across jurisdictions.


WEIGHT LIMITATIONS AND OVERWEIGHT VEHICLES

 Mexican weight restrictions have traditionally been somewhat more liberal than those in

the U.S." However during the 1980's, Mexican authorities largely ceased enforcement.12 It

has become common practice to overload vehicles by 75 to 100 percent or more. For example,

the authors observed 10 and 12 ton trucks loaded with over 20 tons of bananas. Both to

accommodate the heavier loads and because the older materials and techniques frequently are

employed, most Mexican equipment is markedly heavier than corresponding U.S. equipment.

Several individuals reported that gross vehicle weights over 120,000 pounds were not

uncommon.

 The impact of the overloading, coupled with increases in truck traffic are evident in the

poor road conditions. Once a road surface has begun to fail, with continued abuse the rate of

degradation accelerates. It is not an exaggeration to state that many of the roadways of Mexico

are crumbling.

 The Mexican government is attempting to correct this situation. In July 1993, Mexico

revised its weight regulations and the government announced its intention to begin vigorous

enforcement efforts. For most cargos and truck configurations, the new regulations are

comparable with those in the United States.13

 Private Mexican companies will be granted concessions to build and operate weigh

stations. The ambitious goal is to have enough stations to weigh 80 percent of the traffic within