Massachusetts § 159 - Standard height of draw bars for freight cars
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 159 — Standard height of draw bars for freight cars, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 159. Standard height of draw bars for freight cars
Section 159. The standard height of draw bars for freight cars, measured perpendicularly from the level of the top of the rails to the centres of the draw bars, shall be thirty-four and one half inches for standard gauge railroads and twenty-six inches for narrow gauge railroads, with a maximum variation from such standard height, in either case, of three inches between the draw bars of empty and loaded cars; and no freight car with draw bars which do not comply with the above standard, whether loaded or unloaded, shall be used in moving traffic between points in the commonwealth.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 159
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 159 cover?
Section 159 ("Standard height of draw bars for freight cars") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Massachusetts § 159?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 159" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.
How does Massachusetts § 159 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.