FORT WAYNE, Ind. (ADAMS) – Fall harvest season can be dangerous for those working and for motorists.
The Indiana State Police Fort Wayne Post is taking a moment to remind Hoosiers that with the fall harvest is rapidly approaching and there will soon be an increase in the amount of agricultural equipment on our roadways.
ISP Fort Wayne Post issued the following:
Over the course of the coming weeks Hoosier motorists should expect to encounter large combines, tractors pulling grain carts, grain hauling semi-trucks, and plenty of other agricultural equipment marked with the orange “slow moving vehicle” signs. Each year farming vehicles and towed implements seem to get larger and larger, and as a result drivers need to be ever more cautious and aware during the harvest season.
The Indiana State Police, in partnership with the Indiana Department of Agriculture, are spreading this message of traffic safety awareness with the intent of reducing the potential number of traffic crashes and fatalities in comparison to the previous harvest season statistics.
In 2020, the Indiana State Police reported 270 statewide crashes involving farm equipment and other motor vehicles which resulted in 95 injuries and 2 fatalities. In 2021, the Indiana State Police reported 296 crashes involving farm equipment and other motor vehicles which resulted in 83 injuries and 3 fatalities. While the number of statewide crashes in 2022 dropped to 284, the number of injuries increased to 84 and the number of fatalities increased to 7.
This Fall Hoosier motorists and farmers should particularly note:
If you see agricultural equipment on the roadways, slow down.
Large agricultural equipment makes slower and wider turns than passenger vehicles.
Farm equipment is wide and can take up most of the road. Be sure to use caution when passing.
With the movement of large and wide agricultural equipment on the roads, allow plenty of time to get to your destination and be aware of alternate routes.
When following slow-moving agricultural equipment, exercise patience.
Be aware that agricultural equipment may be moving on the roadways at night.
Farmers should look for a wide pullover location to allow backed up traffic to safely pass.
Farmers- before heading out of the field and onto the roadway, ensure all rear facing warning lights are working properly, and any SMV triangles are clearly visible.
The general motoring public and farmers alike are encouraged to take heed to the above safety tips. In doing so, hopefully we will make the 2023 fall harvest season safe for all Hoosiers!
Comments