Advice for Drivers of Slow Moving Vehicles

photo of trailerAll road users have a responsibility for their own safety and the safety of others.

The risk to drivers of slow moving vehicles and their passengers, and other road users and their passengers, increases if visibility is limited or the intentions of the vehicle’s driver are not made clear.

The offence of dangerous driving not only refers to the way a vehicle is driven, but also to the condition of that vehicle.

In general, agricultural vehicles and trailers are exempt from lighting regulations when used only during the hours of daylight. However, this type of vehicle and any trailer must display the appropriate lights if on the road before sunrise or after sunset. Failure to comply with this requirement is an offence and could lead to two years imprisonment and/or a fine, disqualification and a compulsory re-test.

Some vehicles are required to display flashing amber beacons on unrestricted dual carriageways, but it is recommended that ALL slow vehicles have flashing beacons on roads carrying fast traffic.

Summary of advice for drivers of slow moving vehicles
  • Vehicles and trailers must display appropriate lights between sunset and sunrise.
  • Reflectors and lights should be kept clean.
  • Showing a white light to the rear is an offence when the vehicle is travelling forwards.
  • Both the owner and the driver (who may be an employee) have responsibility for the condition of a vehicle and any towed trailer being driven on the highway.
  • Driving a vehicle on the highway that does not comply with the regulations can lead to a charge of dangerous driving.
  • The penalty for dangerous driving can be a maximum of two years imprisonment.
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