Illinois State Police (ISP) District 19 urge motorists to exercise due caution during the upcoming weeks as farmers throughout the area begin the spring planting season.
As farmers begin to move equipment from field to field, they may be traveling at speeds of 25 miles per hour or less. “Drivers should remain alert during spring planting, said District 19 Commander, Captain Cory Ristvedt. “Be prepared to reduce your speed and increase your following distance immediately upon encountering slow moving vehicles,” he added. The Illinois State Police wants this to be a safe time of the year for all motorists sharing the roadways.
Other farm and traffic safety tips include:
- Avoid distractions while driving, focus on the road.
- Motorists should not attempt to pass farm equipment unless it is both legal and safe to do so; even if the equipment operator waves you around.
- Look for flashing lights and turn signals.
- Slow down, maintain a safe following distance, and be patient when encountering farm equipment.
- Be prepared to meet an oncoming oversized agricultural vehicle.
- Avoid movement of farm machinery at sunrise and sunset, when visibility is more limited.
- Ensure slow moving vehicle emblems are mounted on the rear, to alert motorists.
Together, we can make this season safer for everyone using and sharing Illinois roadways!
