Recent changes in EU legislation mean that ALL vehicles must comply to the turning circle legislation (12.5m outer and 5.3m inner circle) which had hitherto only applied to articulated vehicles. In addition, a 'Swing out1 dimension has been introduced as an alternative to the '60% rule1

The maximum 'Swing out1 dimension is;

800mm     for a rigid vehicle

1000mm   for a rigid vehicle with a lift axle in the raised position

1200mm   for an articulated bus.

'Swing Out' ?

If you draw a line alongside the vehicle at a position that coincides with the outer edge of the vehicle and project that line forward of the vehicle, then turn the steering wheel so that when you drive forward the front corner of the vehicle describes a 12.5m radius circle, the rear end of the vehicle should not project outside the drawn line by more than the dimension for the particular vehicle.

In practice this means that the 60% rule can be exceeded, but this can lead to two main problems;

1. Over length vehicles, 12m is maximum for a rigid
2. Rear axle overload, due to increased body length

The 'Ministry' will except the new rule but our recommendation is to remain as close to 60% as you can. Warning Devices

Vehicles having an overall height exceeding 3m must have either:

1. a notice displayed in a prominent position in the driving cab showing the overall travelling height of the vehicle, its load or equipment, or
2. documents in the cab, within easy reach of the driver, giving details of the route, or choice of routes, to be taken so as to eliminate the risk of the vehicle, its load or equipment, from striking bridges or other overhead structures during the course of its journey.

If (1) is adopted the notice must show the overall travelling height in feet and inches, or in both feet and inches and in metres. The numbers used for giving the height in feet and inches must be at least 40mm tall. The total height shown in the notice must not be less than the overall travelling height of the vehicle, its load or equipment, or more than 150mm above that height.

The requirement under (1) or (2). above also apply when trailers are being towed if the overall travelling height exceeds 3m.