(7)5 Special Vehicle Classes

(7)5 Special Vehicle Classes

This chapter provides statutes relating to special vehicle classes for Title 7 of this code.

(7)5.1 Recreational Vehicles

(a) Definition.

A “Recreational Vehicle” (RV) includes motorhomes, camper vans, and other motorized vehicles designed primarily for temporary living, travel, or recreation.

(b) Operational Requirements.

1. RVs shall comply with all general traffic laws applicable to passenger vehicles unless otherwise specified.
2. Drivers must ensure the vehicle is safely loaded, with all furnishings, equipment, and accessories secured prior to operation.
3. Occupants shall not occupy areas of the vehicle not designed for seating while the vehicle is in motion, except as permitted by law.

(c) Parking and Occupancy.

1. Local authorities may regulate parking duration, overnight occupancy, and hookups for RVs.
2. RVs shall not be used as permanent residences on public roadways unless expressly authorized.

(d) Size and Weight.

RVs exceeding standard passenger vehicle size or weight limits shall comply with applicable oversized vehicle regulations under this title.

(e) Penalty.

Violation of this section constitutes a Level 2 Infraction.

(7)5.2 Semi-Trucks

(a) Definition.

A “Semi-Truck” includes any commercial motor vehicle designed to transport property or goods, including tractor-trailers and articulated vehicles.

(b) Licensing and Qualifications.

1. Drivers must hold the appropriate commercial driver’s license (CDL) and endorsements.
2. Operators shall comply with all medical, training, and certification requirements.

(c) Operational Duties.

1. Semi-trucks shall adhere to designated truck routes where posted.
2. Drivers must comply with hours-of-service limitations and mandatory rest periods.
3. Pre-trip and post-trip safety inspections shall be conducted as required.

(d) Load and Cargo.

1. Cargo must be properly secured to prevent shifting, spillage, or loss.
2. Hazardous materials shall be transported only in compliance with applicable safety and placarding laws.

(e) Enhanced Duty of Care.

Given the size and weight of semi-trucks, drivers and operators are held to an elevated duty of care to protect public safety.

(f) Penalty.

Violation of this section constitutes a Level 4 Infraction.

(7)5.3 Trailers

(a) Definition.

A “Trailer” includes any non-motorized vehicle designed to be towed by another vehicle, including utility, cargo, boat, and equipment trailers.

(b) Attachment and Safety.

1. Trailers must be securely attached using approved hitches and safety chains.
2. Functional brake lights, turn signals, and reflectors are required.

(c) Braking and Control.

1. Trailers exceeding weight thresholds shall be equipped with independent braking systems as required by law.
2. Drivers shall adjust speed and following distance to account for increased stopping distance.

(d) Load Limits.

Trailers shall not exceed rated weight capacity or obstruct visibility or vehicle control.

(e) Penalty.

Violation of this section constitutes a Level 3 Infraction.

(7)5.4 Agriculture Vehicles

(a) Definition.

“Agricultural Vehicles” include tractors, harvesters, and other machinery primarily used for farming or agricultural operations.

(b) Roadway Use.

1. Agricultural vehicles may operate on public roadways when reasonably necessary for agricultural purposes.
2. Operators shall use warning lights, reflective markings, and slow-moving vehicle emblems when required.

(c) Speed and Movement.

1. Agricultural vehicles may travel at reduced speeds consistent with their design.
2. Operators shall yield when safe and practicable to minimize traffic obstruction.

(d) Exemptions.

Certain registration, inspection, or equipment requirements may be waived when operating exclusively for agricultural purposes, unless otherwise provided by law.

(e) Penalty.

Violation of this section constitutes a Level 2 Infraction.

(7)5.5 Off-Road Vehicles

(a) Definition.

“Off-Road Vehicles” include ATVs, dirt bikes, side-by-side vehicles, and similar vehicles not primarily designed for highway use.

(b) Public Road Restrictions.

1. Off-road vehicles shall not be operated on public highways except where expressly permitted.
2. Crossing public roadways is permitted only at approved locations and in a safe manner.

(c) Safety Requirements.

1. Operators must wear required protective equipment, including helmets where mandated.
2. Passengers are prohibited unless the vehicle is designed for passenger use.

(d) Local Authority.

Local jurisdictions may designate specific routes, trails, or restrictions for off-road vehicle operation.

(e) Penalty.

Violation of this section constitutes a Level 1 Infraction.

(7)5.6 Maritime Vessels

(a) Definition.

“Maritime Vessels” include boats, ships, personal watercraft, and other water-based conveyances subject to regulation under this title.

(b) Operator Responsibilities.

1. Operators shall maintain proper lookout and operate at safe speeds appropriate to conditions.
2. Vessels shall comply with navigation rules, right-of-way standards, and signaling requirements.

(c) Safety Equipment.

1. Required safety equipment, including life-saving devices and signaling apparatus, must be onboard and functional.
2. Operators shall ensure passengers comply with safety requirements.

(d) Collisions and Incidents.

1. Maritime collisions or incidents shall be reported in accordance with (7)6.2.2 Maritime Collision Duty to Report.
2. Operators shall render reasonable assistance to persons in distress when safe to do so.

(e) Penalty.

Violation of this section constitutes a Level 3 Infraction.

(f) Jurisdiction.

This section applies to all navigable waters within the jurisdiction of this code unless preempted by federal maritime law.