Patrol urges motorists to watch for farm equipment

Soon, it will be harvest time in Missouri. Farming plays a vital role in Missouri's economy, history, and identity; and the Missouri State Highway Patrol says motorists should be aware that farm machinery traffic will be heavier than normal during harvest time -- especially on rural highways.

"Harvest time is important to Missouri's farmers," said Col. James F. Keathley, superintendent of the patrol. "Farmers moving from one parcel of land to another in order to complete their harvesting will be on the roadway.

"The Patrol encourages both farmers and motorists to stay alert to changing traffic patterns during the harvest season. If you live in a farming community or travel on routes near farmland, slow down and drive courteously."

Sept. 21-27 is National Farm Safety and Health Week. This annual promotion commemorates the hard work, diligence, and sacrifices of our nation's farmers and ranchers. Safety should come first that week and every week during the harvest season. Following are reminders for safe travel during this busy time of year:

Motorists

* Stay alert for slow moving farm equipment.

* When you come up behind a tractor or other farm machinery, please slow down and be patient. Wait to pass until you have a clear view of the road ahead and there is no oncoming traffic. Never pass on a hill or curve.

* Collisions commonly occur when a motorist tries to pass a left-turning farm vehicle. A tractor that appears to be pulling to the right side of the road to let motorists pass, instead may be preparing to make a wide left turn. Watch the farmer's hand and light signals closely.

* Pay close attention to farm equipment entering and leaving the highway from side roads and driveways.

* Special attention must be paid when traveling at dawn or dusk when the sun makes it difficult for drivers to see.

Farmers

* Make sure any farm equipment being driven on Missouri roadways is properly marked with lights and a "slow-moving vehicle" emblem.

* Drive as far to the right as possible.

* If traffic accumulates behind you on a road where it is difficult to make a safe pass, you should pull off onto the side of the road in a level area, so the vehicles can pass.

* If possible, never travel on roadways at dawn or dusk when it is more difficult for drivers of other vehicles to see.

* Like other motor vehicles, most modern farm tractors have seat belts.

* Always use a seat belt when operating a tractor equipped with a roll-over protection structure.

* Often, all-terrain vehicles are used for agricultural purposes. ATVs being used for farming can only travel on highways during daylight hours and must be equipped with lights, a bicycle flag, and SMV emblem. The law requires anyone under the age of 18 to wear a safety helmet when operating an ATV; the patrol, however, recommends all operators to wear a safety helmet regardless of age.