As Harvest Ramps Up, Motorists Are Urged to Watch for Slow Moving Vehicles

Illinois State Police (ISP) in District 12 urge motorists to exercise due caution while traveling on Illinois roadways during harvest. As farmers begin to move equipment from field to field, they may be traveling at speeds of 25 miles per hour or less.

“Remain especially alert behind the wheel during harvest season”, said District 12 Commander, Captain Cory Ristvedt. “Be prepared to reduce speed immediately upon encountering slow moving farm vehicles”, he added.

Other traffic safety tips include:

• Avoid distractions like texting and talking on hand-held phones while driving.
• 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 closely for turn signals on farm equipment.
• Maintain a safe following distance and be patient! 
• Be prepared to meet an oncoming oversized agricultural vehicle by keeping eyes on the road.
• Avoid movement of farm machinery at sunrise and sunset, when visibility is more limited. 
• Ensure slow moving vehicle emblems are mounted on the rear in order to alert motorists