Motorists are reminded to be extra cautious when approaching slow-moving farm machinery and other agricultural equipment on local roads.
The Lake Erie Regional Grape Program said collisions involving slow-moving farm machinery and other agricultural equipment on public roads in New York and Pennsylvania may lead to injuries and, tragically in some instances, fatalities. The National Safety Council estimates that 15,000 collisions involving farm vehicles happen every year.
All farm machinery that travels less than 40 miles per hour must have a Slow-Moving Vehicle Emblem displayed on the back. This can be identified as a bright orange triangle. These vehicles are not required to move over or ride on the side of the road.
Farm equipment often travels at low speeds and makes wide turns, sometimes requiring longer stopping distances. Factors such as limited visibility, mirrors, and driver awareness can increase risk, especially on rural highways and during planting and harvest seasons. This campaign aims to reduce crashes through education, enhanced visibility, and collaboration with farmers, road authorities, and law enforcement.
For motorists: Slow down when following farm machinery, maintain a generous following distance, and be prepared to stop. Never attempt to pass on hills, curves, or when visibility is limited.
For farm operators: Equip vehicles with bright, functioning lights and a visible SMV emblem; use reflective tape on trailers; use signals consistently; keep the driver’s view clear; consider escort vehicles for long or wide loads.
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