New rules for farm vehicles on roads begin in January
It follows a review by the Road Safety Authority and the introduction of legislation by Transport Minister Paschal Donohue.
The current regulations are over 50 years in place and deemed to be out of date due to bigger, faster, and more powerful agricultural vehicles being used.
These are generally constructed to highest standards and are capable of carrying out tasks outside the scope of the present regulations.
The RSA says it is important the regulatory regime reflects the developments in technology and requires the vehicles to comply with recognised standards.
These relate to key safety areas, like braking, suspension systems, tyres and lighting, as well as the weights for which they are designed.
The RSA says vehicles which do not comply with the new regulations are likely to need only minor remedial works.
Examples are fitment of a flashing amber beacon and/or replacement of the manufacturer’s plate indicating the design axle weights and maximum permitted towable masses.
“Trailers already in service will also be able to continue in use, but, due to varying construction standards, some will need remedial work.
Tractors and trailers operating at higher speeds and weights must also be appropriately plated and speed rated,” it said.
A regulation’s breach may result in a court summons, and a fine of up to €2,500, a prison sentence or both on the person who commits the offence and on the vehicle’s owner.
It is expected most agricultural tractors will comply with the requirements with minimal spend.
However, the ICMSA farm and rural affairs committee chairman, Patrick Rohan, says it has some concerns regarding the practicality of implementing some of the measures.
The ICMSA was acutely aware of the need for farm vehicles and equipment to be properly maintained and ‘fit for purpose’.
However, writing in the association’s newsletter, he said it was determined to ensure any changes do not result in unnecessary costs and restrictions being loaded onto farmers.
