Sharing Roads Safely During Spring Planting

Farmers and Drivers Urged to Stay Alert and Prevent Road Accidents

Spring planting season brings increased farm equipment onto public roads, requiring both motorists and farmers to be more cautious.

Angie Johnson, farm and ranch safety coordinator with North Dakota State University Extension, highlighted the urgency of defensive driving.

“Spring planting is a busy and hectic time for all producers, as the weather is always the deciding factor if conditions are favorable to start planting efforts,” said Johnson.

Statistics from 2023 show that 22% of crashes involving farm equipment occurred in May, primarily on asphalt roads. The speed difference between farm machinery and vehicles gives motorists little time to react, often leading to accidents.

“Farm equipment travels at significantly lower speeds than a typical automobile," Johnson emphasized. "For example, if you are driving your car at 55 mph and come upon a tractor that is traveling at 15 mph, it only takes five seconds to close a gap the length of a football field between you and the tractor, which is not enough time to react and avoid a collision.”

Farmers are advised to use hazard lights, clean windows and mirrors, check lighting systems, and fold equipment properly for transport. Using cameras for rear visibility and planning routes to avoid hazards are also important.

Farm equipment operators must obey traffic signs, drive during low-traffic hours, and stay within their lanes. Motorists should avoid distractions, remain patient, and recognize slow-moving vehicle signs.

Sharing the road safely this season is a team effort. Awareness, patience, and defensive driving from both motorists and farmers can greatly reduce the risk of crashes during planting season.