Question: I know the harvest is going on. Can you give some information on sharing the roads with each other?
Answer: Good suggestion on a great topic.
• Farm equipment is allowed on Minnesota roads, too. During planting and harvest seasons, drivers should expect to encounter tractors, combines, grain wagons and other large equipment on rural roads and highways.
• Farm equipment moves differently from passenger vehicles. It is often wide, heavy and slow to accelerate, maneuver and stop. Some equipment may cross the center line or make wide turns.
• Rear-end crashes are a major concern. Crash data shows that many crashes involving farm equipment happen when another vehicle strikes it from behind. Drivers need to recognize equipment early and adjust their speed.
•Passing requires patience. Never pass until you have a clear view of the road ahead, enough room to complete the pass and confirmation that it is legal and safe to do so.
• Everyone has a role in road safety. Drivers should stay alert and give equipment room, while farm equipment operators should use required lights and visibility markings and follow all traffic laws that apply to them.
You can avoid a ticket — and a crash — if you simply buckle up, drive at safe speeds, pay attention and always drive sober. Help us drive Minnesota Toward Zero Deaths.
If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota send your questions to Sgt. Troy Christianson – Minnesota State Patrol at 2900 48th Street NW, Rochester MN 55901-5848. (Or reach him at, Troy.Christianson@state.mn.us)
