By Scout Nelson
Angie Johnson, North Dakota State University Extension farm and ranch safety specialist, along with safety experts from the North Dakota Highway Patrol and transportation institutes, highlighted the importance of proper load securement to prevent roadway accidents involving farm trucks and trailers.
Farm equipment crashes on roadways most often involve tractors, planters, combines, and other large machines. However, trucks and trailers used on farms are also at risk due to their size, weight, and speed. Safety experts stress the importance of keeping vehicles in good condition, using proper lighting, and securing loads correctly.
“In the rush of a spring planting season and the summer growing season, the focus is on field equipment,” said Angie Johnson, North Dakota State University Extension farm and ranch safety specialist. “Unfortunately, trucks and trailers can become something of an afterthought.”
During transport, loads such as seed, fertilizer, equipment, and hay bales face strong forces like vibration, wind, and movement. Johnson explains that improper load security is common and can lead to serious risks.
“If those loads aren’t properly secured, they may topple onto the roadway, slide forward into the cab or fall backward off the truck or trailer,” says Johnson.
Regulations require that loads are properly secured. “Farmers do get relief from some regulations, but the regulations that cover load securement aren’t among them,” says North Dakota Highway Patrol Trooper Joshua Anderson.
Proper securement depends on weight and length. The working load limit of tie-down devices must match at least half the load weight. The number of tie-downs increases with load length, and all cargo weight must be included in calculations. Materials like manure or seed must also be covered to prevent spills.
Experts also stress checking straps and chains regularly. Damaged equipment reduces safety and may lead to violations.
“It’s easy to think that a load is secured ‘good enough’ for a short haul or convenience,” Johnson says. “But if you need to make a quick maneuver to avoid a road hazard or if you need to make a sudden stop, that’s when having that load properly secured is essential.”
Load restrictions on roads and bridges must also be followed. “Those seasonal weight restrictions protect roads from damage when they are most susceptible in the spring,” says Del Peterson.
Following these safety steps helps prevent accidents, protects roads, and ensures safe farm transport operations. Additional state load restriction information can be found on the North Dakota Department of Transportation website: https://www.dot.nd.gov/driver/commercial/north-dakota-load-restrictions.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-creischl
Categories: North Dakota, Equipment & Machinery, Rural Lifestyle, Farm Safety