7 Harvest Safety Tips for Operating Farm Equipment on the Road

Harvest season brings unique challenges and increased agricultural machinery on the roads. To ensure safety for everyone when it comes to sharing the road with farm equipment, it's crucial to follow specific guidelines. Here are seven essential tips to help you navigate the roads safely during harvest season.

Farm Equipment Safety Tips for Driving on Public Roads

1. Understand the State Laws

Knowing the laws for driving tractors and other farm equipment on public roads is vital. Common regulations of course include speed limits, proper signage and markings. For instance, Arizona's five-car law requires slow-moving vehicles to pull over if five or more cars are behind them. Additionally, some states have weight limit exemptions during harvest season, restrictions on driving times and limits on how far tractors can be driven. Always check your state's specific laws to ensure compliance.

1. Make Yourself Visible

Visibility is key to preventing accidents. Equip your farm machinery with slow-moving vehicle (SMV) signs, reflective tape and proper lighting. Ensure that all lights and flashers are functioning correctly to alert oncoming traffic of your presence.

1. Inspect Your Equipment

Regular inspections can prevent breakdowns and accidents. Here are some critical points to check:

• Ensure lights, flashers and reflectors work: Proper lighting is essential for visibility.
• Make sure hitched equipment is secured and wired: Loose equipment can be hazardous.
• Check brakes and tires: Well-maintained brakes and tires are crucial for safe driving.
• Clean your windshield: Clear visibility is necessary for safe operation.
• Balance and secure your load: Properly balanced loads prevent tipping and accidents.

1. Check Road Conditions

Be aware of the road conditions, including hills, sharp curves, blind corners, potholes and loose gravel. Adjust your driving for rainy, nighttime or low visibility conditions. Anticipate poor conditions and drive cautiously on rural roads with minimal stop or yield signs.

1. Avoid Heavy Traffic

Operating slow-moving farm equipment during high traffic times can be risky. Try to avoid driving during peak hours when personal vehicles are most abundant. Plan your routes and times to minimize interaction with heavy traffic.

1. Consider Using a Pilot Vehicle

A pilot vehicle can enhance safety by alerting other drivers to the presence of farm equipment. In some situations, using a pilot vehicle is required by law. Even if not mandated, a rear or front pilot car can provide additional safety. Ensure pilot vehicles are equipped with proper signage and markings

1. Keep Right & Maintain Space

Wide, slow-moving vehicles should stay in the right lane whenever possible. On single-lane roads, maintain enough stopping space between your machinery and other vehicles. Allow sufficient space for other vehicles to pass safely.

Does Insurance Cover Your Farm Equipment on the Road?

Operating farm equipment on public roads involves unique risks that may not be covered under standard farm insurance policies. It's essential to understand your coverage options:

• Replacement Cost Coverage for Farm Machinery: This policy covers the cost to replace damaged equipment for machinery up to eight years old. 

• Farm Liability Coverage: Protects against costs associated with property damage, bodily injury or legal expenses resulting from accidents involving farm equipment.

Feel Safely Prepared for Harvest

Consult with your local Farm Bureau insurance agent to ensure you have adequate coverage for your farm machinery when it's on the road. Additional endorsements may be necessary to cover equipment in transit. By following these tips and having proper insurance coverage, you can drive safely during harvest season and protect both your farm equipment and the public.