Springfield, IL – The Illinois State Police is reminding drivers and farmers to take extra care on roadways this fall as harvest season gets underway. With agriculture ranking among the state’s top industries, farmers across Illinois will be moving heavy equipment on public roads over the next several months.
According to Illinois State Police, motorists are urged to remain patient and cautious while sharing the road with tractors and other slow-moving farm vehicles. Officers said collisions involving agricultural equipment are common during harvest, especially on rural roads.
Drivers are encouraged to allow extra travel time, increase following distance when approaching wide farm equipment, and reduce speed when encountering tractors on highways. ISP also noted that flashing amber lights signal caution, while orange and red reflective triangles indicate slow-moving vehicles.
It is illegal to pass in no-passing zones or within 100 feet of an intersection, railroad crossing, or bridge. ISP warned that improper passing around farm equipment could result in crashes. Motorists should also be alert for hand signals from farmers, as some older machines may not be equipped with turn signals.
Officials said yielding to wide equipment and exercising patience could significantly reduce roadway risks this season. Farmers, in turn, are encouraged to use proper lighting and markings to make equipment more visible to other drivers.
Authorities emphasized that with more farm vehicles on the road this fall, drivers should expect delays and prioritize safety over speed.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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