Share the road with farmers as spring planting happens

With farmers preparing for spring planting season, the Wisconsin State Patrol reminds drivers and farm vehicle operators to be safe, patient and share the road.

Spring is a busy time of year for farmers, and drivers can expect to see more farm vehicles on the road. Safety on the roads requires everyone to do their part.

There have been more than 2,000 crashes involving farm vehicles in Wisconsin, in the past five years, including a preliminary report of 388 in 2023.

“Farmers are out working hard to feed our communities,” said Wisconsin State Patrol superintendent Tim Carnahan. “Their equipment is often slower, less agile and much larger than a standard vehicle.”

Driver responsibilities include scanning the road ahead and being ready to slow down, when spotting slow-moving farm vehicles. Motorists should provide extra room for farm vehicles, and anticipate the possibility they may slow down or turn.

Be patient and cautious if deciding to pass. In Wisconsin, it is unlawful to pass an agricultural vehicle in a no passing zone. When legally passing, consider the possibility of the farmer turning left onto a road, driveway or field entrance.

Farm vehicle operator responsibilities include knowing the lighting and marking requirements for farm vehicles. These requirements draw attention to the unique size, shape and speed of agriculture vehicles, and alert other drivers that caution is required.

When traveling on a road, stay as far to the right as safely possible; be familiar with road weight restrictions. The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture Trade and Consumer Protection provides a statewide map, with information about weight limits. Always review information about permits, exemptions and weight limits.