The Indiana State Police Bremen Post would like to remind Hoosier motorists that fall harvest is rapidly approaching and there will be an increase in agricultural equipment on the roads.
Hoosier motorists should expect to see large combines, tractors pulling grain carts, and other agricultural equipment on the roadways. The Indiana State Police is partnering with the Indiana Department of Agriculture, and “together we can increase roadway safety by encouraging careful driving and taking the correct steps when safely navigating around large farm equipment on the roads this fall,” according to a news release from ISP.
In 2020, the ISP reported 270 statewide crashes involving farm equipment and other motor vehicles which resulted in 95 injuries and two fatalities. In 2021, the Indiana State Police reported 296 crashes involving farm equipment and other motor vehicles which resulted in 83 injuries and three fatalities. While the number of statewide crashes in 2022 dropped to 284, the number of injuries increased to 84 and the number of fatalities increased to seven.
This fall Hoosier motorists and farmers should particularly note:
• If you see agricultural equipment on the roadways, slow down.
• Large agricultural equipment makes slower and wider turns than passenger vehicles.
• Farm equipment is wide and can take up most of the road. Be sure to use caution when passing.
• With the movement of large and wide agricultural equipment on the roads, allow plenty of time to get to your destination and be aware of alternate routes.
• When following slow-moving agricultural equipment, exercise patience.
• Be aware that agricultural equipment may be moving on the roadways at night.
• Farmers should look for a wide pullover location to allow backed up traffic to safely pass.