Harvest season: Safe driving tips for sharing roadways with farm equipment

JACKSON, Tenn. — Have you noticed more farming equipment traveling on the roads? As harvest season begins, we have tips to stay safe as we share the roadway.

During harvest season, you may notice more agricultural equipment on the roadways.

“Harvest season, typically in West Tennessee, depends on the weather of course, but usually starts in August and sometimes runs into December just depending on the weather,” said Daniel Wiggins, Ag & Natural Resources agent in Crockett Co.

If you haven’t already, you can expect to see large tractors, cotton pickers, combines and more traveling alongside you. Wiggins shares some safe driving practices this season.

“If you get behind those pieces of equipment and you can’t pass because other traffic is coming the other way, I mean, it’s a two-lane road or two-lane highway–practice patience. Most of the time, 99.9% of the time, the farmers I know are going to try to pull over somewhere, they are just trying to find a safe spot to do it,” said Wiggins.

Also, be mindful that most farm equipment moves at a speed slower than your vehicle. While typical speed limits on rural highways are 55, most farm equipment can not travel above 30.

Wiggins urges drivers to exercise caution when traveling on county roads.

“When you see equipment, slow down and share the road. Most of the farmers are going to share the road with you as well, and just be cautious of speed,” said Wiggins.

It is also common to see farm equipment traveling at night. It’s best to look out for their flashing lights.

Wiggins also urges drivers to be mindful that farmers also feel anxious in front of traffic, so it’s important to keep a safe distance.

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