Wisconsin State Patrol Law of the Month reminds us to share the road with farm equipment

The Wisconsin State Patrol is reminding drivers and farm vehicle operators to share the road with the fall harvest underway. This is a busy time of year for farmers, requiring everyone on the road to be alert and patient to prevent dangerous crashes.

There have been 2,053 crashes involving farm vehicles in Wisconsin over the past five years, resulting in 650 injuries and 28 fatalities. Most of these crashes occur in September, October and November, with October being the peak month.

“We are in the middle of an especially busy time for farmers in Wisconsin, and drivers are likely to encounter large, slow moving farm equipment on the roads,” Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan said. “Staying cautious, patient and aware behind the wheel can go a long way in safely sharing the road.”

Drivers should always scan the road ahead and be ready to slow down when approaching a slow-moving vehicle. Give farmers extra space and anticipate the possibility that they may slow down or turn into a driveway or field entrance. If you need to pass, do so with caution and only when it is legal to do so. In Wisconsin, it is illegal to pass an agricultural vehicle in a no passing zone.

Farm vehicle operators also have an important role in keeping the roads safe. When driving farm equipment, stay as far to the right as safely possible and be sure your vehicle meets all lighting and marking requirements. Be aware of weight restrictions for the roads you travel. The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture Trade and Consumer Protection provides a statewide map with information about weight limits. You can also find information about permits, exemptions and weight limits on the WisDOT website.

View the October Law of the Month video and news release at wisconsindot.gov/Pages/about-wisdot/newsroom/law/lom.