DOT laws changed in MN

[wtrenholm]

If anybody races or tows through Minnesota be aware that the DOT has changed the laws regarding who is and what is considered "commercial" haulers.

The new pamphlet reads:

(Quote)
Do the commercial vehicle regulations apply to you?

1. Do you declare prize money as income from a business for tax purposes?

2. Are the costs for the underlying activities deducted as a business expense for tax purposes?

3. Do you accept products and/or money for advertising a sponsor?

4. Is the transport vehicle being used in the furtherance of a commercial operation?

If you answered YES to either question 1,2,3 or 4 continue to question 5. If you answered NO to all questions (1-4), STOP HERE, you are not in furtherance of a commercial operation.

5. Is the "gross vehicle weight" of the single vehicle or combination (truck and trailer) greater than 10,000 lbs?

YES- You must follow the appropriate regulations for the location(s) you travel in i.e. interstate or intrastate.

NO- STOP HERE! You are not subject to commercial vehicle regulations.
(end quote)

A lot of folks are now considered "commercial" and have to have DOT med cards, log books, vehicle inspections, etc. This seems to be a revenue generator, we've been hearing stories of mass violations ticketed at a major NHRA drag race at Brainerd International Raceway.

Please check it out before towing.

Just trying to save somebody some money (maybe a lot)
Wayne