Farm Equipment on Public Roads

According to the National Safety Council, approximately one third of all fatal tractor accidents occur on public roads. Almost half of all incidents between motorists and farm implements involve one of two scenarios:

  • A left-hand turn collision that occurs when a driver attempts to pass without recognizing that farm equipment is about to turn left;
  • A rear-end collision when a motorist unexpectedly encounters slow moving equipment and is unable to stop in time.

Caution, courtesy, and special attention will help ensure the safety of motorists, passengers, and operators of slow-moving equipment. So, as you travel the local roads, watch out for our farmers as they move their equipment from field to field. And, should you encounter a piece of equipment, be patient and remember to:

  • Determine whether the road is wide enough for you and the machinery to safely share.
  • Check if there are any curves or hills ahead that may block your view or the view of on-coming vehicles; if so, do not pass.
  • Check to make sure the machinery is not turning left. Look for left-turn lights or hand signals. If the machinery slows and pulls toward the right side of the road, the operator is likely preparing to make a wide left turn. Likewise, sometimes to make a right turn with wide equipment, the driver must pull to the left.
  • Don’t assume the farmer knows you are there. The tractor driver must spend most of the time looking ahead to keep oversized equipment safely on the road. Also, most farm equipment is very loud. Before you attempt to pass, briefly sound your car’s horn to warn the equipment operator you are preparing to pass.
  • Look for roadside obstacles such as mailboxes, bridges, or road signs that may cause the machinery to move to the center of the road.
  • Be sure there is adequate distance for you to safely pass.
  • Be watchful of vehicles behind you that may also try to pass.
  • Counter any rising frustration by thinking about how tasty those fresh, local fruits and vegetables are going to be at dinner that evening.