Motoring Law and Farming
Published on: 07 June 2017As summer approaches, I was recently asked to clarify the legal position in respect of Motoring Law issues that crop (no pun intended) up from time to time involving farmers and their employees …
Driving licences and age:
Tractors and trailers
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A person aged 16 can drive a tractor as long as it is not more than 2.45 metres wide and they have passed their tractor test.
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They can also drive tow trailers less than 2.45m with 2 wheels or 4 wheels close-coupled
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As a rough guide, older tractors are smaller than newer ones
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At the age of 17, once a driving test (Class B) has been passed, a 31t tractor and trailer can be driven
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However, a person still needs to be 21 before they can drive a combine harvester, telehandler and self propelled foragers/sprayers
Insurance
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Employers should ensure that this is in place, expressly covering those under 17.
Mobile phones
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The rules are the same as for other motorists…6 penalty points and a fine.