Road Reminders for #Harvest21
Sep 24, 2021
The weather app on our phone reads, “Expect rain to continue for the next several hours.”
While the rain comes down and combines sit empty in the end rows, we thought now would be the perfect time to talk about road safety. #Harvest21 is rolling and with harvest comes more farm equipment on the state highways and rural routes.
The amount of time that this equipment is on the road is brief, as harvest only lasts a matter of weeks. But that doesn’t change the level of caution needed when operating around them. Anyone who shares the road with farm equipment needs to be vigilant and alert.
We ask that you keep in mind:
• Some farm equipment is wider than the road. Don’t assume a farmer can pull over to the shoulder, as it may be steep or soft.
• Pass with caution.
• Do not assume that a farm vehicle that pulls to the right side of the road is going to turn right or is letting you pass. Due to the size of some farm machinery, the farmer must execute wide left-hand turns.
• Equipment moves slowly compared to motor vehicles. Remember to use great caution and slowing speeds when approaching.
• Do not assume the farmer in front of you knows you are behind them. Farm equipment is loud and has wide blind spots.
• Be patient and courteous.
This week we recognize National Farm Safety and Health Week, September 19 – 25. Agriculture is one of the most noble professions, but also one of the most dangerous. The 2019 data for the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that the agricultural sector is still the most dangerous in America with 573 fatalities, or an equivalent of 23.1 deaths per 100,000 workers.
At the end of the day, everyone – whether in a passenger car or a combine - is trying to finish strong and get home safely. We appreciate your patience and attention to safety as we move through the harvest season.
While the rain comes down and combines sit empty in the end rows, we thought now would be the perfect time to talk about road safety. #Harvest21 is rolling and with harvest comes more farm equipment on the state highways and rural routes.
The amount of time that this equipment is on the road is brief, as harvest only lasts a matter of weeks. But that doesn’t change the level of caution needed when operating around them. Anyone who shares the road with farm equipment needs to be vigilant and alert.
We ask that you keep in mind:
• Some farm equipment is wider than the road. Don’t assume a farmer can pull over to the shoulder, as it may be steep or soft.
• Pass with caution.
• Do not assume that a farm vehicle that pulls to the right side of the road is going to turn right or is letting you pass. Due to the size of some farm machinery, the farmer must execute wide left-hand turns.
• Equipment moves slowly compared to motor vehicles. Remember to use great caution and slowing speeds when approaching.
• Do not assume the farmer in front of you knows you are behind them. Farm equipment is loud and has wide blind spots.
• Be patient and courteous.
This week we recognize National Farm Safety and Health Week, September 19 – 25. Agriculture is one of the most noble professions, but also one of the most dangerous. The 2019 data for the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that the agricultural sector is still the most dangerous in America with 573 fatalities, or an equivalent of 23.1 deaths per 100,000 workers.
At the end of the day, everyone – whether in a passenger car or a combine - is trying to finish strong and get home safely. We appreciate your patience and attention to safety as we move through the harvest season.