Harvest Season Road Safety Tips for Farmers and Drivers

By Blake Jackson

Harvest season is underway across Wisconsin, and farmers are returning to the fields with tractors and other implements of husbandry (IOH). While this equipment is legally permitted on public roads, its size and slower speeds can create challenges for other motorists sharing rural roadways.

Fall harvest is among the busiest and riskiest times of year for farm families, which is why the third week of September is observed as National Farm Safety and Health Week (NFSHW). This year’s campaign, running Sept. 21-27, carries the theme “Safety First, Avoid the Worst.”

“All motorists share the goal of returning home safe to their families,” said Wisconsin Farm Bureau President Brad Olson. “During this time of year, it is important to take extra precautions and pay careful attention to increased hazards on rural roadways.”

Accidents on roads are a leading source of injury and fatalities in agriculture. With this in mind, both farmers and motorists are urged to be vigilant in several key situations.

• Passing: Since 2014, Wisconsin law has prohibited passing farm machinery in no-passing zones, no matter the speed. Motorists must wait until they are in a legal passing area. Farmers should not encourage drivers to pass in restricted zones but may pull over if the shoulder is wide and stable enough. Operators of wide equipment must yield to oncoming traffic when necessary.
• Left-Hand Turns: Communication is critical. Most farm equipment has flashing amber or yellow lights; the light on the turn side keeps flashing while the other remains steady. If lights are not available, hand signals should be used. This is especially important in poor visibility.
• Controlled Intersections: Farm equipment requires more braking distance due to weight. At 55 mph, a vehicle can close the distance on a tractor moving 15 mph in just five seconds the length of a football field. Passing near intersections or on divided highways reduces reaction time for equipment operators and creates serious hazards.
• Be Prepared: Equipment should meet state lighting and marking requirements, including reflective tape and SMV emblems. Regular checks ensure visibility. Training operators, mapping safer routes, and reviewing permit rules all improve safety.

Ultimately, farmers and motorists share responsibility. Extra caution and preparedness are vital to ensuring a safe and successful harvest.

Photo Credit: istock-simplycreativephotography