State Police Ask for Caution on Roadways During Harvest Season

Illinois State Police in District 12 urge motorists to exercise due caution while traveling on Illinois roadways during harvest season.

As farmers begin to move equipment from field to field, they may be traveling at speeds of 25 MPH or less.

"Drivers should be aware and prepared to slow down when encountering farm vehicles", said District 12 Commander, Captain Kelly Hodge. "Reduce speed immediately upon seeing a slow moving implement in front of you", he added. 

Other farm and traffic safety tips include:

--avoid distractions while driving such as texting, talking on hand-held phones, animals, etc.

--motorists should not attempt to pass farm equipment unless it is both legal and safe to do so, even if the equipment operator waves you around

--look for turn signals

--maintain a safe following distance and be patient

--be prepared to meet an oncoming oversized agricultural vehicle

--avoid movement of farm machinery at sunrise and sunset, when visibility is more limited

--ensure slow moving vehicle emblems are mounted on the rear, to alert motorists