Bruce Kettler, Indiana State Department of Agriculture director, wants to remind motorists and farmers to slow down and share the road this fall. Be patient. Farmers are going to and from work, just as you do. At all times, follow the rules of the road: don’t tailgate farm equipment, pass only in designated passing zones and ensure you are following the hands-free driving law.
“Harvest season is quickly approaching and Hoosier fields are looking really good,” said Kettler. “We want to encourage farmers and motorists alike to slow down, be patient and share the road.” It’s important to watch for wide vehicles, especially when approaching hills and curves in the road.
Farm equipment must have the national designated slow-moving vehicle sign – a red triangle-shaped reflector – to warn approaching drivers that slow moving equipment is on the roads. These vehicles often travel at speeds no higher than 25 mph. Farm equipment during harvest season could include tractors, combines, grain carts, grain wagons and large trucks hauling agricultural products.
When attempting to pass farm equipment, always look for oncoming traffic. Farmers will pull over for motorists when they are able to, but it may take some time to find a safe place to do so. And if a vehicle pulls to the shoulder, don’t assume that the driver wants you to pass. Farm equipment must make wide turns, and farm vehicles have to move to the right to prepare. Look ahead for gates, roads, driveways, barns… any place that the farmer may be preparing to turn into.
“As farmers begin to harvest this year’s crops, please remember to be courteous and cautious when meeting farm equipment on the roadways,” said Doug Carter, Indiana State Police Superintendent. “By working together and sharing our roadways, we can ensure we all make it home safely.”
(Material furnished by Indiana Dept. of Agriculture)
Comments