Drivers Urged to Slow Down and Stay Alert During Harvest Season

The Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office and the Sangamon County Farm Bureau are reminding motorists to use extra caution on roads as harvest season begins. With agriculture serving as a leading industry in the county, drivers can expect to encounter more large farm equipment moving between fields over the coming weeks.

“Harvest season is one of the busiest times of the year in our community, and we all share the responsibility of keeping our roads safe,” Sheriff Paula Crouch said. “Patience and awareness go a long way in preventing accidents. A few extra seconds of caution can make all the difference and help both farmers and drivers get home safe to their families.”

Officials note that traffic crashes involving farm machinery historically rise during harvest months, often the result of impatient drivers or unsafe passing. They stress that taking a few extra minutes and staying alert can help prevent serious accidents.

“Drivers need to know that the extremely large equipment farmers use have many blind spots. Don’t assume that they can see you just because you are right behind them. If you can’t see them in their mirrors, then they can’t see you,” said Jim Birge, Manager of the Sangamon County Farm Bureau. “Farmers don’t want to impede traffic, that’s why, if possible, we encourage them to move equipment on the roads during light traffic periods. But if you do encounter farm equipment, a good dose of patience will keep both farmers and drivers safe this fall.”

The Sheriff’s Office and Farm Bureau encourage motorists to allow for extra travel time, maintain a safe following distance, reduce speed when approaching farm equipment, and never pass in no-passing zones or near intersections, bridges, or railroad crossings. Drivers should also watch for flashing amber lights, reflective triangles, and turn or hand signals from farmers operating older equipment to help ensure a safe harvest season for everyone on the road.