The Difference Between Auto and Mobile Equipment
The difference between an auto and a piece of “mobile equipment” is not entirely clear, but a broad distinction has been drawn between the two. Vehicles that have permanently attached drills, shovels, and loaders are considered “mobile equipment.” They must comply with motor vehicle registration and financial responsibility laws and compulsory insurance laws. Additionally, they must display a motor vehicle emblem designed to indicate slow movement. Despite this broad distinction, there are many exceptions.
Vehicles with permanently attached cranes, shovels, loaders, diggers, or drills are considered “mobile equipment”
Some of these vehicles are used for construction projects. For example, motor vehicles may be used for dams, stock water dugouts, farm irrigation systems, and soil and water conservation projects. Mobile equipment is used on multiple job sites or repositioned to a central location. Implement dealers may use mobile equipment to transport farm machinery to county or state fairs.
Another category of vehicles is water trucks. These vehicles are used for transportation of firefighting equipment. They do not have to be auto to preview, but must have the power to travel on public roads. These vehicles are classified as “mobile equipment” unless they have permanently attached cranes, loaders, diggers, or drills.
They are maintained for use solely on the premises you own or rent
In this case, the term “auto equipment” means a vehicle designed for use on public roads. A trucking company, for example, may use an old tractor to pull trailers. The term “maintained” has become a point of contention and is often interpreted broadly to mean a vehicle that is kept solely for use on the premises. Nevertheless, it is essential to note that the phrase “auto equipment” does not exclude vehicles used seasonally. Rather, they must be insured under the same policy that covers business autos. And they must carry the appropriate coverage symbol.
They are subject to motor vehicle registration and financial responsibility laws or compulsory insurance laws
Some types of auto equipment may be subject to motor vehicle registration and financial responsibility laws and other legislation. These laws apply to vehicles and equipment used in certain business activities. The financial responsibility laws generally apply to motor vehicles, while those for other equipment may not apply. A good way to know if your auto equipment is subject to these laws is to check with your insurance company. You may need to purchase additional insurance for this type of equipment.
They must be equipped with a slow-moving motor vehicle emblem
The Slow-moving motor vehicle emblem is required on vehicles that travel on highways. The yellow-orange triangle emblem is highly visible and is surrounded by a dark red reflective border. It is meant to act as an identification symbol for vehicles and is intended to be visible only when the vehicle is moving slowly. It is not intended to replace the need for additional lighting on the vehicle. It is not a substitute for the stop sign.
The American Society of Agricultural Engineers has approved a special slow-moving motor vehicle emblem for vehicles traveling at 25 miles per hour or less. This emblem is a triangular shape that must be mounted on the rear of the motor vehicle. If the motor vehicle is to be towed, it must have an emblem mounted on the rear of the rearmost unit. It must also feature a reverse signal that is audible over the surrounding sound. In addition, the observer must signal when it is safe to reverse.