As warmer weather approaches, staffers at the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee are warning residents to watch for slow moving vehicles.

A slow moving vehicle is one that operates at 25 miles per hour or less including tractors, self propelled agricultural equipment, road construction or maintenance machinery and animal-powered vehicles.

Slow moving vehicles are more common between April and October, due to planting and harvesting of crops.

State law requires slow moving vehicle emblems on all vehicles traveling less than 25 mph. The emblem is a fluorescent triangle 14 inches tall by 16 inches wide, with a dark red reflective outline.

Emblems should be located in the center of the back of the vehicle, two to six feet above the road. Emblems must be kept clean and replaced when faded.

For self-propelled agricultural equipment that is operated on public roadways after dark or when visibility is reduced to less than 1,000 feet, additional requirements are imposed to improve visibility.

The vehicle should be equipped with the following lamps in good working order, which must be lighted:

• Two white colored head lights on the front of the vehicle

• One red colored tail lamp at the rear and as far left as possible

• Two amber lamp hazard flashers and/or turn indicators, at least 42 inches high and visible from the front and rear

• Two red colored reflectors mounted at the same height on the rear

An exception is made for Amish buggies in some parts of New York State, including St. Lawrence County.

Instead of the orange triangle and lighting the Amish may use a lantern on the left rear bumper, as well as a regulated amount of grey reflective tape on the rear of the buggy.

When overtaking a slow-moving vehicle of any type, slow down and increase following distance.

Drivers should only pass when it is safe and legal; never on a hill or curve.

Just as when passing other vehicles, drivers should wait until the oncoming lane is clear.

Equipment that is being towed, such as hay wagons, may sway behind the vehicle towing it.

Keep in mind that slow-moving vehicle operators may have poor visibility due to wide loads and equipment. Be alert for sudden turns that may partially block the lane.

Animal-powered vehicles may make unanticipated movements, especially if startled. Horses may take a few steps back when slowed or halted, so motorists should always stay several yards behind a buggy or wagon.

Under the state Vehicle and Traffic Law it is illegal to put slow-moving vehicle emblems on stationary objects, such as mailboxes and driveway posts. Placing the emblems on stationary objects diminishes the intended value and effect of the signs, according to committee staffers.

For more information about slow moving vehicle emblems visit www.safeny.ny.gov/slowmove.htm.