Farming folks know their way around tractors and farming gear on their turf. But when these machines hit public roads, it’s a different ball game with stricter rules.

In this piece, you’ll know the regulations on lights for tractors and farming vehicles. On public roads based on the Road Safety Authority (RSA) advice.

Lights That Tractors Need

The RSA reminds us that tractors and farm machines must have all sorts of lights. These are side lamps, headlamps, rear lamps, stop lamps, and turn signals.

Amber beacons and number plate lights are also part of these essential lights. And guess what? They should always have these lights on, not just when it’s dark.

Lights for Trailers and Gear

Let’s talk about those trailers and stuff you tow behind your tractor. They also need side lamps, rear lamps, stop lamps, turn signals, and number plate lights.

If your trailer buddies up with your tractor and the length is over 10 meters, it’s got to have a marker light on the side.

Reflective Markings for Hefty Trailers

Oversized, heavy-duty trailers weighing over 3,500 kilograms also need reflective rear markings. If your trailer is more than 10 meters long, it needs reflective light on the side to make it more visible.

The “Long Vehicle” Sign

If your vehicle combo is more than 13 meters long, it must sport a sign that says “Long Vehicle.”

This rule and the reflective markings don’t apply to gear that can carry over three times its weight. Slurry tankers, fertilizer spreaders, and grain chaser bins count in this category.

Vintage Machines Get a Pass

Vintage machinery, made 30 or more years ago, catches a break. They don’t have to be decked out with a full lighting setup, but there’s a catch – they can only run during the day. This rule goes for the trailers they tow as well.

Flashing Amber Beacon for All Tractors

From January 1, 2016, all tractors need a flashy amber beacon. It has to be on whenever the tractor is in action. Vintage vehicles don’t need beacons to join vintage rallies or shows.

Lights for Old Trailers

What about those trailers that were born before 1980 and already have lights? Well, they better keep those lights and reflectors in good shape – clean and efficient. So, the trailer is ready for action at any time.

Lights for Attachable Gear

Suppose you’re rocking gear that attaches to your tractor and doesn’t have its lights like balers, sprayers, or grass rakes. You only need lights if they block the tractor’s front or rear lights and reflectors.

Number Plate Lights

Remember number plate lights! Trailers and towed gear should have them unless they’re vintage models.

Stay Compliant

The RSA suggests the original manufacturer to ensure you’re following the 2016 lighting standards.

If the original manufacturer is away, get another company making similar gear. They can check your vehicle and tell you what needs to be done to meet the rules.

So, there you have it – the lowdown on lighting and visibility rules for tractors on the road. Remember, keeping those lights in good shape will help keep you safe.