NH1320 on paved road

tc35dforme · May 22, 2003

MikePA · May 22, 2003

Well, Lowell, you've received opinions that run the gamut! /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif Hopefully, you will be able to take them, apply them to your situation, and make a wise decision. One thing all of us can agree on is that we want you to be safe and hang around TBN for a long time!! /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

Leemac · May 22, 2003

THANKS TO YOU ALL! I think I'll be driving my 1320 to new lot. Can't seem to find anyone to bush hog for less than $35.00 an acre and the fact that I'd be a novice at renting/using a trailer etc. I will follow your very helpful suggestions. The roads I'll be using are flat,straight,and traffic will be light. Also, will be taking extra fuel,using an escort and I'll be purchasing one of the battery operated strobe lights as well as using flashers and SMV sign. My escort will have fuel,tools,snacks,etc. Thanks to all of you for your very prompt replies.

DIYGuy · May 22, 2003

I guess none of you are in MA. You have to have a commercial plate to drive a tractor on the road unless you are actively engaged in farming AND are travelling under 1/2 mile. I've been looking at this for a month now and fianlly had to talk to the legal counsel to the MA RMV and my local police chief.

Wish I could get away with a SMV just to go the 1 mile between my house and the neighbors woods where they want to me do some tree work.

Anonymous Poster · May 23, 2003

Can't you find a "job" to do at the halfway point? Then, you'd have two starting points and two destinations, each a half mile apart. What do you have to do to prove you're actively engaged in farming - carry a copy of your tax return showing farm income? Does MA still have a law on the books requiring motor vehicles to be preceded by a man on foot carrying a red lantern? (I moved from MA to FL 31 years ago - that's another alternative) /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

tc35dforme · May 23, 2003

Check a bit more on MA law...look here MGL for the definition of a motor vehicle....especially the last statement about determination of by the registrar.

edit: I just spoke to my bud who is a police officer...he said the 12 MPH is key. In his opinion...as long as you don't exceed 12 MPH and act responsibly, your OK.

A lot depends on the situation. In my area, we routinely operate and see operating tractors on the roads, but usully when the traffic is light and the conditions are appropriate.

I have been passed by several Ma State Troopers while on the road with my tractor without as much as a blink. I had the lights on and SMV placcard and was aware enough to get as far over and slow down when they approached.

If you're operating in a Boston suburb an trying to be part of the regular traffic...you'll be in trouble.

Just my experience...NOT LEGAL ADVISE /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif