Slow moving vehicle

slow moving vehicle

Belarus 4522

Hungary license plate for slow vehicles 01

Serbia old plate for slow vehicles

Slow vehicle - geograph.org.uk - 1183176

Slow moving vehicle (SMV) refers to any vehicle or equipment that operates at a speed significantly lower than the normal flow of traffic on a road or highway. These vehicles are typically marked with a distinctive orange triangular emblem with a red border to alert other drivers of their reduced speed.

Characteristics

Slow moving vehicles are often used in agriculture, construction, and other industries where equipment needs to be transported on public roads. Common examples include tractors, combine harvesters, and road construction equipment. These vehicles usually travel at speeds of 25 miles per hour (40 km/h) or less.

Identification

The primary method of identifying a slow moving vehicle is the SMV emblem. This emblem is a reflective orange triangle with a red border, designed to be highly visible both day and night. The emblem is typically mounted on the rear of the vehicle.

Regulations

In many jurisdictions, the use of the SMV emblem is mandated by law. These regulations often specify the size, color, and placement of the emblem to ensure maximum visibility. Additionally, some areas may have specific rules regarding the times of day or types of roads on which slow moving vehicles can operate.

Safety Considerations

Drivers of slow moving vehicles are encouraged to use additional safety measures such as flashing lights, reflective tape, and escort vehicles to further enhance visibility. Other road users are advised to exercise caution and patience when encountering an SMV, maintaining a safe following distance and only passing when it is safe to do so.

Related Pages

• Agricultural machinery
• Construction equipment
• Traffic safety
• Vehicle regulations