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Staying Safe in Modern Farming

Tags: Legislation
September 16, 2019 10:00 AM
By: Kyle Poland

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​Modern farming has modern demands. To ensure farmers are better able to transport agricultural products or supplies, the PA Farm Bill has expanded the allowable width for the use of implements of husbandry on roads, such as farm tractors and combines, from 16 feet to 18 feet.

So what does that actually mean? For farmers, it's the ability to transport the equipment they need more freely on roadways. For motorists, it's something to be aware of while traveling the scenic roads of Pennsylvania. Here are the guidelines for this new regulation:

Between sunrise and sunset, requirements are:

  • Must have liability insurance.
  • Preceded by pilot vehicle displaying "oversize load" signage and activated hazard signal lamps.
  • Must have at least one flashing or revolving yellow light or strobe light with 360° visibility.

Additionally, they may only travel within 50 miles of any farm operated by the owner OR between farms OR between farm and mechanic or dealer within 150 miles of the farm for sale or repair, with five days' notice to PennDOT except in cases of emergency repairs.

Between sunset and sunrise, the requirements are:

  • Preceded and followed by pilot vehicle displaying "oversize load" signage and activated hazard signal lamps.
  • May only travel within 25 miles of the farm.
  • Must have reflective edge marks or lights on outermost edges of front and rear.
  • Must have at least one flashing or revolving yellow light or strobe light with 360° visibility.
  • Must be driven by a person over 18.
  • Must have liability insurance.
  • May not be driven faster than 25mph.

Watch out for farm equipment anytime you're on the road. Don't rush, be patient, remain visible, and pass with care. Remember – this is the 2% of the population that feeds us. The least we as motorists can do is give them the space they need to do their job well.


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