When are buses allowed to exceed the width limit of 8 feet?

Buses are allowed to exceed the width limit of 8 feet specifically in counties with populations of 500,000 or more. This regulation accommodates the need for larger vehicles, which can be essential for public transportation in densely populated urban areas. These larger buses often provide necessary services where the demand for transportation is high. The allowance recognizes that metropolitan areas may have wider roads and design considerations that account for larger vehicles, ensuring safety and efficiency in public transit.

In contrast, rural areas may not support such an exception due to different road designs and lower population densities. The option that suggests buses can exceed width limits at any time is not practical, as regulations are put in place to ensure safety and uniformity on the roads. Lastly, while interstate highways often have specific guidelines regarding vehicle dimensions, they do not automatically extend permission for exceeding width limits without meeting specific local regulations.