AGRICULTURAL VEHICLES… IT’S THE LAW The Legislation covering agricultural vehicles is complex and subject to change, due to the wide variety of vehicles used and their application. The information below is provided as a general guide to assist your business to operate safely and within the law.
SPEED LIMITS Less than 2.55m wide with 2 Sprung Axles
40mph
Up to 3.5m wide
25mph
AGRICULTURAL TRAILERS - WEIGHTS & DIMENSIONS WEIGHTS 18,290 kg is the maximum (gross or fully laden) weight of an agricultural trailer. 31,000 kg is the maximum (gross or fully laden) weight of an agricultural combination (tractor plus trailer).
LENGTHS The maximum length of an agricultural trailer is normally 12m. In the case of a “Composite trailer” (semi-trailer and converter dolly) the maximum length is 14.04m. In the case of an Agricultural trailed appliance (with gross weight less than double the unladen weight) the maximum length is 15m.
WIDTHS • The maximum width is 2.55m. Under special circumstances, Agricultural vehicles wider than 2.55m are permitted to use public roads. • Vehicles that are up to 4.3 metres in width are permitted, subject to the following terms and conditions: - between 2.55m and 3m: speed must not exceed 20mph. - between 3m and 3.5m: speed max 20mph as above, plus if the journey is over 5 miles or the speed limit in the road is 40mph or lower, the operator must notify the Police in advance of the journey.
between 3.5m and 4.3m: the Police must be notified, the maximum speed is limited to 12mph and the vehicle(s) must be accompanied by an attendant, who may ride in a different vehicle but must ensure no danger is caused to the vehicle or to other road users. The police, following notification, may place restrictions on the use of the vehicle in the interests of road safety or to avoid undue traffic congestion. 105
