The Indiana State Police caution motor vehicle drivers that farmers will be harvesting their fields of corn and beans within the next few weeks.  During this time, large farm equipment may be traveling on the roadways, and may impede traffic.

Drivers are reminded to be ever cautious when approaching a hillcrest or curve.  Farm implements need additional roadway space, be prepared to slow down, pull to the side, or stop.  Darkness also creates a hazardous situation for motorists and farmers.  Use extra caution at night, particularly on county roads.

Tips for farmers:

• Have all lighting and placards on your equipment as required by law.
• When parking equipment along the road while in the field, make certain it is visible at night.
• When three or more vehicles are behind you, safely pull to the side of the road to let same direction travel pass your equipment.
• Avoid traveling on state and U.S. highways during rush hour traffic.
• Wear reflective clothing when working at night so as to be seen by motorists and farm workers.

Tips for motorists:

·         Be patient when behind farm equipment, they have the right to operate on the roads same as you do.

·         When approaching farm equipment from the opposite direction pull to the right and let them pass, particularly on narrow roads.

·         Always be cautious when approaching farm equipment on the side of the road.  Someone may be working around or getting into or out of the equipment.

The Indiana State Police want this fall farming season a safe one for the farmers and motorists sharing Indiana roadways.  Please be patient and courteous to each other when driving.

« Back to News Release List

Link to this event: