Share the Road Responsibly

 

For those of us that have any rural driving in our day, some of the rules might be hazy on how to drive around farm equipment. With this time of year seeing an uptick of tractors and other farm equipment on the roads, now is a great time to review the basics.

It is OK to pass farm equipment on the road, but make sure to be familiar with the fine print. Here is a list from the North Dakota Highway Patrol website (link here):

"Farm equipment (described in ND Century Code as implements of husbandry) can legally be passed on most roadways in the state. Motorists can pass Farm Equipment when legal (watch for those striped, yellow lines down the center of the paved highways and NEVER pass on a hill) and safe to do so.

When approaching slow moving heavy equipment:

• Stay a safe distance behind the operator so he/she can see you in their side and/ or rearview mirrors
• SLOW DOWN-you will approach these vehicles much faster than you anticipate
• Be patient and use extreme caution when passing to make sure you have enough time to safely pass and avoid any oncoming traffic
• Be aware of roadway debris (the farmer may have just been in a muddy field) that may make the roadway slippery."

Remember to be patient and wait for a good opportunity to pass. We can share the road responsibly and make room for all the folks in agriculture who are extra busy this time of year.