Skip to Main Content

Leaves are Fallin', Autumn is Callin'

 
View Archives

Leaves are Fallin', Autumn is Callin'

Harvest season is underway in all parts of the state. We would like to remind motorists to use more caution and patience when traveling around farm trucks, tractors, combines, and other implements.

It is important to share the road safely, for the sake of the farmers out working, and for the motoring public. Tips to keep in mind when sharing roads with farmers:

BE PATIENT. Most farm equipment is not designed to travel at highway speeds, and may only travel 15-25 mph. Farm equipment is often wider than other vehicles, and is sometimes wider than the lane of traffic, so extra room should be allowed when traveling near an implement on the road. Extra caution should be practiced on all roads.

  • Don't assume the farmer knows you're there. Most operators of farm equipment regularly check for vehicles behind them, however, most of their time must be spent looking ahead to stay on the road and watch for oncoming traffic. Implements are very loud, hindering the farmer's ability to hear your vehicle.
  • Pass with extreme caution. Don't pass unless you can see clearly ahead of both your vehicle and the farm equipment you are passing. If there are curves or hills blocking your view of oncoming traffic, wait until you can clearly visualize the area you're passing in. You should not pass in a designated "No Passing Zone," even if you are stuck behind a farm vehicle. Do not pass if you are within 100 feet of any intersection, railroad grade crossing, bridge, elevated structure, or tunnel.
  • Farm equipment must take wide turns so allow it plenty of room and time to turn. When a farm vehicle pulls to the right side of the road, it does not mean it is turning right or allowing you to pass. Be alert to see if there might be a driveway or field they may be turning into.
  • If a farm vehicle is coming towards you, slow down and move over as far as you can. If there is an entryway you can pull into, pull in until they pass.
  • Think of the slow moving vehicle emblem as a warning to adjust your speed. When you see the slow moving vehicle emblem, you should immediately slow down. While the emblems are visible from a long distance away, it is often difficult to judge the speed of the vehicle in from of you, especially at night.
  • Pay attention. When you are not focused solely on the road, you increase your chances of a collision, especially if you should come upon a slow moving farm vehicle. Avoid distracts such a phones or playing with the radio. Be aware of our surroundings when we are driving the roads.

Also remember as the temperature drops, early morning fog is more common. Driving in fog can be very dangerous. Drive slow with your lights on and avoid passing.

 

Have a safe and happy season!!

Sheriff Mesch