Agricultural organizations issue road safety reminders for harvest season

During National Farm Safety and Health Week, agricultural organizations are issuing safety reminders for motorists and farmers as harvest season begins.

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach advises drivers to exercise caution when sharing roads with large farm equipment, such as combines and grain carts, which possess significant blind spots. Drivers are encouraged to slow down, maintain safe following distances, and avoid passing machinery on hills or curves.

The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation emphasizes that farmers must ensure equipment is equipped with proper lighting, reflective markings, and Slow Moving Vehicle (SMV) emblems. Motorists are reminded that passing farm equipment in no-passing zones has been illegal since 2014. Both parties are urged to maintain clear communication and visibility to prevent accidents during peak harvest times.