ISP: Farmers and motorists need to share the road | News

As the local farmers start getting out into their fields and the planting season begins, Illinois State Police District 19 Interim Commander, Lieutenant Ken Ryder, wants to remind farmers and motorists the need to share the road safely.  “Motorists need to remember farm equipment is larger and travels at a slower rate of speed than most other vehicles on the roadway," Ryder said.  "As a rule, patience is the key for both the farmers and the traveling public during this time of the year.”

The following are some tips to help motorists share the road safely with farmers:

• Reduce speed and be prepared to yield to wide farm equipment when encountered on public roads.  Flashing amber lights mean “caution.”
• Slow down when you see the Slow Moving Vehicle Emblem—the orange and red reflective triangle warns you that the tractor or combine travels at a slow rate of speed.
• Keep a safe distance from the farm equipment so the farmer can see you.  If you can’t see his mirrors, he can’t see you.
• Watch for the farmer’s indication of a turn.  Newer equipment has one or more amber lights flashing rapidly to indicate a turn.  Older equipment is typically not equipped with turn signals, so watch for the farmer’s hand signals.
• Pass wide, large farm equipment only if you know conditions are safe and you are sure the farmer will not be making a left-hand turn.  Remember, it is illegal to pass in a No Passing Zone, or within 100 feet of an intersection, railroad crossing, or bridge.
• Always wear a safety belt and obey the speed limit.

In addition, here are some suggestions to help farmers share the road safely with other motorists:

• Plan travel to avoid rush hours, bad weather, the busiest roads, and the time before daylight and after dark.
• Be obvious to motorists by proper use of reflective Slow Moving Vehicle emblems on any implement of husbandry operated on public roadways.  It’s the law.
• Use reflective marking tape and reflectors at the extremities of equipment.
• Turn on hazard lights mounted on farm equipment and turn off field work lights for all roadway travel.
• Install mirrors that are wide enough for you to see what is following you.
• Always use turn signals to indicate plans to turn into fields or driveways.
• Be aware of traffic—oncoming, in front of you, and behind you.
• If road and shoulder conditions are safe, pullover temporarily to allow traffic to pass.
• When practical, haul larger equipment to the next location.

Remember to follow these simple suggestions to share the road safely.  “If we work together, we can minimize traffic crashes and serious injuries this time of the year,” added Lt. Ryder.