By Jamie Martin
As spring planting begins, farmers are moving equipment on public roads more frequently, and both motorists and farmers must work together to ensure road safety.
Angie Johnson, North Dakota State University Extension farm and ranch safety coordinator, stressed the importance of defensive driving during this busy season.
“Spring planting is a busy and hectic time for all producers, as the weather is always the deciding factor if conditions are favorable to start planting efforts,” said Johnson.
In 2023, nearly 22% of farm equipment crashes occurred in May, with most accidents happening on asphalt roads. High-speed vehicles encountering slow-moving equipment have only seconds to react, often causing collisions.
“Farm equipment travels at significantly lower speeds than a typical automobile," Johnson explained. "For example, if you are driving your car at 55 mph and come upon a tractor that is traveling at 15 mph, it only takes five seconds to close a gap the length of a football field between you and the tractor, which is not enough time to react and avoid a collision.”
To promote safety, Johnson recommends farmers use hazard lights, clean mirrors and windows, install cameras for better rear visibility, and ensure all lights are functional. Implements should be folded for transport, and clear turn signals should be used when leaving the roadway.
Farmers should also plan travel during daylight hours, obey traffic signs, stay in their lane, and yield for oncoming vehicles when possible. Motorists are encouraged to avoid distractions, especially cell phone use, and to be patient when following farm machinery.
By working together, farmers and motorists can share the roads safely and help prevent accidents this spring.
Photo Credit: north-dakota-state-university
Categories: National