Michigan Farm Bureau appreciates drivers’ patience during harvest season

With harvest season in full swing across Michigan, drivers will be seeing a noticeable increase in farm equipment on the roads. While farmers are busy harvesting and moving crops, drivers are urged to be extra cautious, patient and aware as they share the road with large, slow-moving machinery.

According to Michigan State Police data, crashes involving farm equipment fell by nearly 10% in 2023, but there were still 195 accidents statewide. Of those, 44 resulted in injuries and three were fatal.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) recognizes and appreciates the patience of drivers who are navigating the roads alongside tractors, combines, and other large farm vehicles.

"Farmers work hard to keep equipment off public roads whenever possible," said Andrew Vermeesch, MFB legislative counsel. "But during this time of year, they have no choice but to move between fields, which means more farm equipment on the roads than usual."

The size and speed of farm machinery often surprise drivers, but it's important to be prepared. At 55 miles per hour, it only takes five seconds to close the distance of a football field and catch up to a tractor moving at 15 miles per hour. When you see a bright orange triangle - the universal slow moving vehicle sign - on the back of equipment, it's your cue to slow down and be ready for anything.

Patience is key. Passing farm equipment can be tricky, especially on rural roads or two-lane highways. If you can't see farmers in their mirrors, they probably can't see you. Stay back, stay alert, and only pass when you're absolutely sure it's safe to do so.

Farmers will pull over to let traffic pass when it's safe, but with soft or narrow road shoulders, it's not always possible. And keep in mind that farm equipment doesn't turn like a car. Sometimes farmers need to make wide turns, so give them extra space and anticipate slower movements.

"We all want to get home safely to our families," Vermeesch said. "Whether you're behind the wheel of a car or a tractor, patience and awareness go a long way in making sure everyone gets where they're going, without incident."

As harvest season continues, MFB asks drivers to remain alert, be patient, and remember that by sharing the road, everyone can make it home safely.