That huge tractor or combine might be an unwelcome sight for a driver on country roads, but it’s a necessary part of harvest season. That equipment also has “road rights” and the Wisconsin DOT is urging drivers to be aware and to give farmers the chance to do their job safely.
DOT Secretary Craig Thompson said that over the past five years more than 2,000 preventable crashes occurred involving farm vehicles, and while equipment operators must follow rules and regulations, motorist also have extra responsibilies in preventing accidents.
Given their unique size, shape and speed, ag vehicles are required to use specific lighting and markings in order to alert motorists, and are supposed to stay as far to the right as safely possible. They’re also required to obey weight restrictions and may need permits to operate on certain roads.
At the same time, motorists need to exercise patience and caution, especially in Wisconsin which has more than 64,000 farms on 14.2 million acres. Given the numbers, you’re likely to find yourself behind farm equipment at some point, and state law makes it illegal to pass an ag vehicle or “implement of husbandry” in a no-passing zone. Even when the road is clear, farm equipment might be turning left onto a roadway or field.
In 2022, 50 persons were injured and two were killed in the 136 crashes reported involving motorists and farm vehicles. The DOT hopes that awareness, patience and caution will make 2023 a safer harvest season.
Comments