Tips for Driving Safely During Planting Season

These driving tips are critical for farmers and all who share the roads with them.

Spring Planting Season Arrives

As farmers approach the 2025 crop season, drivers across rural communities are reminded of their role in making 2025 a safe and successful year in American agriculture.

Large agricultural machinery, rural roadways, and unpredictable spring weather can create dangerous driving conditions. Staying alert and respectful can help prevent accidents and keep everyone safe this season.

More Farm Equipment on the Road

Spring planting brings early mornings, long days, and an increased number of slow-moving vehicles on the road. While these machines are essential to help farmers produce America’s food supply, they often travel at speeds under 25 mph.

Additionally, modern farm equipment may span across lanes and require wide turns into fields and driveways. Awareness and patience among all drivers are key to avoiding dangerous situations.

The Challenges of Rural Roadways

Rural roads vary in size and condition. Many are narrow, curved, and bordered by vegetation or drainage ditches. Some may lack shoulders and adequate signage.

Motorists can be caught off guard by suddenly coming upon a tractor around a bend or over a hill. Combine that with reduced road conditions or poor weather, and the chance of a collision increases.

The following safety reminders are offered to help everyone do their part during the 2025 crop year.

For Farmers: Keep Yourself and Others Safe

The Illinois Farm Bureau offers the following safety tips for farmers during planting season:

Use slow-moving vehicle (SMV) emblems and reflective tape.
Turn on hazard lights and turn off field lights when on the road.
When possible, avoid moving machinery during peak traffic times, poor weather, and low visibility hours.
Check mirrors frequently to monitor vehicles behind you.
Signal all turns and give motorists plenty of notice.
Pull over when safe to allow backed-up traffic to pass.
Minimize equipment width or transport large machinery on trailers when feasible, especially when travelling long distances or in heavily trafficked areas.
Stay alert—fatigue after long hours in the field can affect your reaction time.
Avoid distracted driving.

For Motorists: Slow Down and Be Alert

Whether you’re commuting to and from work, running errands, or traveling through to enjoy farm country, these safety practices can help motorists prevent collisions:

Slow down immediately when approaching farm equipment.
Keep a safe distance. If you can’t see the farmer’s mirrors, they can’t see you.
Pass only when legal and safe. Never pass near intersections, residential areas, bridges, or no-passing zones.
Watch for hand signals or flashing amber lights. These may indicate wide turns.
Always wear a seatbelt and obey posted speed limits.
Expect delays and plan accordingly. Patience is part of safe spring travel.
Avoid distracted driving—no matter how slow you are travelling.

Spring Planting Season Requires Shared Responsibility

Safe travel during planting season is a shared responsibility between farmers and all other drivers on rural roads. Safe roads start with mutual respect and understanding of the realities of seasonal farming activity.

The Moultrie County Health Department encourages everyone to drive with care this spring. Let’s work together to ensure a safe and successful planting season for our farmers and our communities.