Remain cautious on roads during planting season

INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana State Department of Agriculture encourages motorists to be cautious during planting season.

“Indiana is the eighth largest farming state in the country and a national leader in the production of traditional row crops like corn and soybeans,” said Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch.

“Whether you live in rural, urban or suburban Indiana, remain alert on the road this spring as you may encounter large farm equipment moving between fields.”

The most common farm equipment drivers will encounter include sprayers, tractors pulling planters or tillage equipment, and large trucks hauling agricultural products. These vehicles are wide and often travel at slow speeds.

“During the spring, Indiana sees a drastic increase of large farm equipment on our rural roads and highways, and it is important for Hoosiers to know how to safely navigate around them,” said Doug Carter, Indiana State Police superintendent.

“Patience, courtesy and understanding, along with the undivided attention of motorists and farmers will help ensure a safe 2023 planting season.”

Large Farm Equipment Encounter Tips

1. Farmers will pull over when they are able to let motorists pass, but it may take time for them to get to a safe place to do so.

2. Be patient. Farm equipment is wide, sometimes taking up most of the road.

3. Be careful when passing. Do not pass in a designated “No Passing Zone” or within 100 feet of any intersection, railroad grade crossing, bridge, elevation structure or tunnel.

4. Do not try to pass slow-moving farm equipment on the left without ensuring that the farmer driving is not planning a left turn. It may appear that the driver is pulling over to allow a pass when the farmer is actually preparing to turn. You will drive right into its path, endangering yourself and the farmer.

5. Avoid tailgating, as some farm equipment might have to make sudden stops along the road.

6. Allow plenty of time to get to a destination, be aware of alternate routes and avoid distractions.

“It is critical that farmers get their crops planted in a timely manner to ensure a successful crop,” said Don Lamb, director of ISDA. “If you encounter farm equipment on the roads, be patient and courteous so everyone can make it home safely to their families.”