Can you actually drive your tractor on a Texas road in traffic? This is what the law says

You know when you’re in Texas if you’re stuck behind a tractor on the road.

This is not uncommon , given that Texas is home to 426,000 miles of rural farm roads , according to the Texas Department of Insurance. These roads are essential because they are the backbone of distributing farm production to the general public, and heavy-duty vehicles like tractors are essential in that.

Slow-moving vehicles are allowed on most roads except Texas highways, so what are the rules regarding driving a tractor on Texas roads?

Can you drive a tractor in traffic?

“Farm vehicles” are allowed on Texas roadways as long as they follow all the same rules of traffic, with a few more expectations.

• Obey all traffic laws.

• Show a “slow-moving” sign on the back of the vehicle.

• Must have turn signals (or use hand signals).

• Enabling lights or flashers if necessary.

• Encouraged to drive in the slow lane (the right-hand lane).

• Use extreme caution when making a left turn.

• Avoid the use of front-end loaders (heavy machinery with a large bucket in front used to lift, dump, and move materials).

• No interstate highway travel.

• No roads that prohibit slow-moving vehicles.

• Must have two forward-facing headlights, a red tail light, and hazard lights.

How to safely operate a tractor on Texas roads

“According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, approximately 50 tractor-operator fatalities occur each year from collisions with motor vehicles or trains,” says the Texas Department of Insurance.

If you are driving a tractor on a public road, ensure that you practice safe driving habits. A commercial driver’s license is not required when handling farm equipment, however the driver should be erudite on traffic laws.

Texas Department of Insurance suggests the following tips to avoid incidents:

• Use turn signals or hand signals when changing lanes, making a turn, pulling onto a road, or slowing down to stop.

• Signal at least 100 ft. before turning or stopping.

• Equipment is equipped with an operational 2A-10 B: C-rated dry chemical fire extinguisher and a properly stocked first-aid kit.

• Seat belts are equipped with rollover protection.

• No extra riders.

• Ensure children who operate vehicles are at least 16 years old or 14 years old with an approved Tractor and Machinery Certification.

• Avoid busy times, bad weather, and driving before sunrise and after sunset.

• Consider using an escort vehicle.

How to share the road with a tractor

If you encounter a tractor while driving on Texas roads, ensure that you slow down. The machine is most likely traveling around 25 mph.

It is allowed to pass a tractor because it cannot speed up to the proper speed limit or keep up with traffic. However, pass with extreme caution and only when there is plenty of room to get around and ahead.