Stay Safe on Roads this Harvest Season

By Scout Nelson

As harvest season begins, the North Dakota State University (NDSU) Extension is reminding both farmers and motorists to stay alert and practice road safety when traveling. With more farm equipment on highways and rural roads, awareness and caution are essential to prevent crashes.

“Fall harvest is a busy and hectic time for all producers, as the weather is always the deciding factor if conditions are favorable to start harvesting efforts”, says Angie Johnson, NDSU Extension farm and ranch safety specialist. “Soybean harvest, along with silage corn chopping, is in full swing and there is an increased amount of farm equipment and slow-moving vehicles on our public roads. This means that equipment operators, who are driving farm equipment on the road to access their fields, and general motorists, must be prepared to share the road and sharpen their defensive driving skills to prevent crashes with farm equipment”.

According to the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT), there were 40 crashes involving farm equipment in 2024, with most occurring on asphalt roads. Speed differences are a major factor. When vehicles traveling at 55 mph approach equipment moving 15 mph, the distance of a football field can close in just five seconds—often too fast for drivers to react safely.

Johnson emphasizes that safety on rural roads requires teamwork between farm equipment operators and motorists. Distracted driving, especially cell phone use, should be avoided at all times.

For farm equipment operators, Johnson recommends:

• Always wear seatbelts when using equipment with enclosed cabs or roll-over protection.
• Use hazard lights, turn signals, and slow-moving vehicle signs to stay visible.
• Check mirrors, clean windows, and ensure all lights work properly.
• Transport large combine headers separately to prevent road blockages.
• Plan travel during daylight and less busy traffic periods.

For motorists, key safety steps include:

• Slow down immediately when approaching flashing lights or slow-moving signs.
• Maintain at least 50 feet of distance from farm equipment.
• Avoid passing unless you can see clearly ahead and ensure it’s safe.
• Watch for wide turns—farm vehicles may swing right before turning left.
• Always wear seatbelts and eliminate distractions.

“Regardless of whether you are driving farm equipment or a vehicle, wear your seatbelt and put the cellphone away,” says Johnson. “Distracted driving is dangerous and illegal.”

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