What is the maximum allowable width with a special Caltrans permit?

The correct answer is 12 feet because this width is the maximum limit allowed for vehicles operating on California highways under a special Caltrans permit. Beyond this width, vehicles are considered oversize and require additional permits or escort vehicles to ensure safety and compliance with traffic regulations. Understanding this limit is crucial for drivers who handle oversized loads, as exceeding it could lead to legal penalties or safety hazards on the road.

The options indicating lower widths do not account for the specific allowances made under special permits. These permits are designed to manage larger loads safely and efficiently, while widths beyond 12 feet would generally be regulated by more stringent requirements to ensure they do not pose challenges to road infrastructure or other vehicles.