Sharing the road with farmers

Harvest time in the Midwest is busy. Farmers and farm workers have big equipment and implements on the road, and navigating roadways can be dangerous for farm equipment operators and the auto drivers around them.

During the fall harvest season, our region experiences a surge in agricultural activity, making it a hazardous time for farmers and farm workers. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the agriculture sector consistently ranks as one of the highest-risk industries for occupational injuries and fatalities, recording 453 deaths in 2021, translating to 9.5 deaths per 100,000 workers. Transportation incidents, such as tractor overturns, were the leading cause of death for farmers and farm workers.

Follow these safety tips to make harvest season safer for everyone involved.

Equipment operators:
1. Make sure all flashers and lights are operational.
2. Drive as far to the right side of the road as is safe when going around a curve.
3. Pull over and allow vehicles to pass when traffic builds up behind you.
4. Take care at railroad crossings.
5. Avoid traveling during busy traffic times.
6. Be mindful of the height and width of machinery, and watch power lines, bridges, and other hazards.
7. Stay rested; do not drive when you are too tired.
8. Keep a first-aid kit in case of accidents.

Auto drivers:
1. Calculate the time it will take to reach your destination and add extra time for busy farm roads.
2. Give farmers plenty of room on the road. If a piece of equipment takes up the entire road, pull into a driveway or approach and wait for them to pass.
3. When passing, be sure you do so in a passing zone and that there is clear visibility around farm equipment. Watch for oncoming vehicles.
4. Go slow. Farm operators often stop or turn into fields. Cars going at or over the speed limit can quickly catch up to farm machinery since farmers in equipment move slowly.
5. Do not assume that a farmer can move over in narrow areas; it is not always possible.
6. Do not tailgate; the farmer often cannot see you.
7. Do not pass and then slow suddenly in front of equipment with implements behind it or farm trucks full of grain. They cannot stop quickly.
8. Farmers make very wide turns; give them plenty of time and room.