Wisconsin Farm Bureau Urges Spring Road Safety for All

By Blake Jackson

With spring planting underway in Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Farm Bureau is urging heightened safety awareness on rural roads for both farmers operating large machinery and other drivers. Sharing these roadways requires mutual understanding and caution to prevent accidents.

“Everyone is busy, especially during the spring season,” said Wisconsin Farm Bureau President Brad Olson. “It’s easy to get impatient, but we all share the road and the goal of making it home safe to our families. A little patience and awareness can be lifesaving.”

To promote rural road safety, the Farm Bureau offers five crucial tips:

• Drive Smart: Adhere to all safe driving practices. Passing farm implements (IOH) or agricultural commercial motor vehicles (Ag CMVs) in no-passing zones is illegal. Wait for designated passing zones to overtake slow-moving vehicles. Farmers should only pull onto the shoulder in no-passing zones if it's wide and stable enough. Avoid waving drivers to pass, as it can be misinterpreted. In passing zones or on adequate shoulders, farmers must yield to overtaking traffic.
• Stay Alert: Remain vigilant for farm equipment. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation advises immediate slowing upon seeing the slow-moving vehicle emblem (orange and red triangle), indicating speeds under 25 mph. Reduce speed and adjust driving accordingly, especially near hills, curves, and intersections. Be patient and focused when passing legally.
• Watch for Field Turns: Be aware of unexpected turns into field driveways, which are more common than turns at intersections. Left turns with large equipment can be dangerous. Tractors display two flashing amber or yellow lights; a turning signal will continue to flash on that side, while the other becomes solid. Farmers should use proper lighting and markings for visibility.
• Give Space: Farm equipment is heavy and stops slowly. Avoid passing at intersections and always allow ample space when following or overtaking. Maintaining a safe distance provides farmers with necessary reaction and braking time.
• Don’t Assume Visibility: Just because you see the farmer doesn't mean they see you. Large equipment has significant blind spots, especially when backing up or turning. Be patient and avoid risky maneuvers.

“Safe roads are critical, not just for our farmers but for the health and strength of our rural communities,” Olson added. “It’s about more than traffic. It’s about mutual respect, shared responsibility and ensuring safe travels for everyone who uses rural roads.”

Photo Credit: wisconsin-farm-bureau