Oct.1, 2003

For more information contact:
Scott Falb
515-237-3154
scott.falb@dot.state.ia.us

Be alert for slow-moving vehicles on Iowa roadways during fall harvest

AMES, Iowa - The arrival of fall coincides with the harvest season in Iowa. This usually means an increased chance of motor vehicle collisions with farm vehicles, according to Iowa Department of Transportation officials. The DOT’s “2000 Iowa Crash Facts,” the latest crash statistics report available, shows that farm vehicles were involved in 206 crashes during the one-year period. 

Farm vehicles were involved in six fatal crashes, 92 injury crashes, and 108 property damage crashes. The most common time of the day for collisions was between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. That time may coincide with the period when commuter traffic is coming home from work and farm operators are returning from their fields. 

Studies also show that the left-turn, rear-end and passing collisions are the three most common types of farm vehicle crashes. The left-turn collision occurs most often when a farm vehicle is about to make a left turn and a motorist behind that vehicle decides to pass. The rear-end collision happens when a slow-moving vehicle is hit from behind. The passing collision takes place when a motorist passes a farm vehicle without taking into consideration the extra width or length of the vehicle.

To reduce deaths, injuries and economic losses from these types of crashes, the Iowa DOT is reminding motorists and farm vehicle operators that there are ways to safely share the roads. The most effective ways are to obey all traffic laws, drive defensively by anticipating the actions of others, and, above all, use courtesy and common sense.

The DOT offers the following defensive driving tips for motorists and farm vehicle operators.

Tips for motorists:

• Be alert and always watch for slow-moving vehicles, especially during planting and harvest seasons.
• Be patient and don’t assume the farmer can move aside to let you pass. The shoulders may not be able to support a heavy farm vehicle.
• Slow down as soon as you see the triangular-shaped, red and fluorescent orange slow-moving vehicle emblem.

Tips for farm vehicle operators:

• Make your intentions known when you’re turning by using signal lights or the appropriate hand signal in advance of a turn.
• Drive slow-moving vehicles in the right-hand lane as close to the edge of the roadway as safely possible. Traveling half on the shoulder may cause motorists to risk passing in a dangerous situation.
• Avoid encouraging or signaling motorists to pass. Pull over where it is safe, and let the traffic go by.

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