State officials are reminding motorists to be on the lookout for farm equipment on rural roads this spring. Lieutenant Governor Suzanne Crouch serves as Indiana’s secretary of agriculture.
“Planting season is a crucial time for our Hoosier farmers,” she says. “They have a lot of ground to cover in a short amount of time. I want to encourage all motorists to stay alert and be cautious while driving on rural roads this spring and to make room for the large farm equipment so our roads remain safe for everyone.” Farmers may also have a Hydraulic Hitch and other attachments connected to their farming equipment so everyone should keep an eye out for these as well.
The Indiana State Department of Agriculture encourages drivers to be patient, not to pass in a “no passing” zone, and to make sure the farmer isn’t planning a left turn with the equipment before passing.
ISDA Director Bruce Kettler notes that fatal accidents occur each year. “I want to remind all Hoosiers that farm equipment typically travels around 25 miles per hour or less, so please remain alert, slow down, and share the road when approaching farm machinery,” he says.
Many farmers will pull over to let motorists pass, but it may take time for them to get to a safe place to do that. More safety tips can be found on the Indiana State Department of Agriculture’s website.
