The Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety is reminding motorists to use caution and share the roads with farm machinery during the autumn harvest season.

MoDOT reminds drivers that farmers are just doing their jobs when moving equipment from field to field. Please be patient and drive carefully around farm vehicles.

Non-farm motorists may not immediately recognize farm equipment on roadways or be aware of certain special hazards they can present. Lighting and reflector locations on tractors, combines and other farm equipment are different from other motor vehicles. Loads on farm vehicles may be wider than other vehicles, which present special hazards for other motorists when left, right, rear and front projections are not easily recognizable.

MoDOT says the most common collisions occur when the approaching motorist hits a farm vehicle from behind, or when a passing motorist hits a farm vehicle that is attempting to make a wide left turn.

The Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety offers these tips when driving around slow-moving farm machinery:

  • Be mindful that it’s harvest season and keep an eye out for machinery.
  • Be patient and remember that farmers are just doing their jobs.
  • Loads on farm vehicles may be wider than other vehicles, which present unique conditions for other motorists.
  • Always pass on the left and only when you have clear sight distance.
  • Always wear your seat belt.  It’s your best defense in any traffic crash.
  • Keep your full attention on the road and put your cell phone down.

For more information, visit saveMOlives.com.

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