Published by: The Ohio State University Extension
Written by:
Peggy Kirk Hall
Director of Agricultural Law; OSU Agricultural and Resource Law Program
Introduction:
A new law addressing fast moving farm machinery went into effect in Ohio on October 18, 2007. The law allows farm machinery to be operated on streets and highways in excess of the traditional 25 mph limit established by the “slow moving vehicle” (SMV) designation. However, a person must display a “speed identification symbol” (SIS) on the machinery in addition to the SMV vehicle emblem.
Here’s a summary of the SIS law:
- Any farm machinery designed to travel in excess of 25 mph, irregardless of whether it is actually operated at the higher speed, must display an SIS sign in addition to an SMV sign.
- In addition to persons operating the machinery, the law extends to any person who “sells, rents or leases” the machinery.
- The SIS sign must signify the maximum speed at which the machinery is designed to operate, and the operator must possess documentation from the manufacturer indicating the machinery’s maximum design speed.
- The SIS sign must also be in accordance with specifications of the American Society of Agricultural Engineers standards.
- Display requirements for the SIS are the same as for the SMV—it shall be mounted so that it is visible at a distance of at least 500 feet to the rear of the machinery.
- A unit of machinery being pulled or towed by fast moving farm machinery must also display both the SMV and SIS.
- As with SMVs, fast moving machinery may also display a red flashing light on the rear of the equipment…Download full article here.
