It’s planting season and traffic will be moving slower. Therefore, the Illinois State Police is urging motorists to drive safely and be vigilant on rural roadways this planting season.
Illinois State Police District 12 Commander, Captain Cory Ristvedt stated, “Drivers should remain especially alert during spring planting. Be prepared to reduce speed immediately upon encountering slow moving vehicles”.
While being prepared to slow down when approaching a farm vehicle is important, the Illinois State Police have released additional planting season travel tips to make this season a safe one travel-wise.
- Avoid distracted driving, i.e. texting, talking on a hand held phone, etc.
- Do not attempt to pass slow moving vehicles, even if signaled to by the operator, unless it’s legal and safe to do so.
- Always look for turn signals.
- Follow at a safe distance and remain patient.
- Be prepared to meet large farm equipment.
- Farmers should avoid moving equipment before sunrise or after sunset as visibility will be limited during these hours.
- Farmers should have a slow moving vehicle emblem on the rear of the vehicle to alert motorists.
Following these tips will allow this planting season to be a safe and travel-friendly one for motorists and farmers.