By Blake Jackson
As Wisconsin’s fall harvest season begins, farmers are returning to the fields with tractors and other implements of husbandry (IOH). While these machines are permitted on public roads, their large size and slower speeds can create additional challenges for motorists.
The harvest period is among the busiest and most hazardous times of the year for the agricultural community. National Farm Safety and Health Week (NFSHW), observed September 21-25 in 2026, highlights these concerns under the theme “Safety Today, Success Tomorrow.”
"All motorists share the goal of returning home safely to their families,” said Wisconsin Farm Bureau President Brad Olson. “During harvest season, taking a little extra time to slow down, stay alert and watch for farm equipment can make a big difference on rural roads. Putting safety first today helps keep everyone safe throughout the busy season and allows farmers to focus on the work that feeds, fuels and clothes our world."
Road crashes remain a significant source of injuries and fatalities in agriculture, making awareness important for both farmers and motorists.
Drivers should remember that passing farm equipment in a no-passing zone has been prohibited since 2014, regardless of the equipment’s speed. Motorists should wait for a legal passing area and make sure conditions are safe before going around agricultural machinery.
Farmers should not signal drivers to pass where passing is prohibited and should only pull onto the shoulder when it is sufficiently wide and stable.
Wide farm equipment operators must also yield the opposite lane to approaching traffic when required to maintain safe traffic flow.
Turning maneuvers require particular caution. Agricultural equipment commonly uses flashing amber or yellow lights to communicate turns.
Operators should ensure signals are visible, while motorists should watch for changes in lighting that indicate a left-hand turn. Hand signals may be used when equipment does not have turn indicators.
Drivers should also avoid passing farm machinery close to controlled intersections. Because agricultural equipment is heavier and requires more stopping distance, approaching it at highway speeds can quickly reduce the available reaction time.
Farmers can further improve safety by checking that equipment has required lighting, reflective markings and slow-moving vehicle emblems. Operators should receive roadway safety training, plan routes carefully and understand applicable permit requirements.
With harvest activity increasing, farmers and motorists must remain alert, communicate clearly and exercise patience so everyone can travel safely and return home at the end of the day.
Photo Credit: gettyImages-shaunl
Categories: Wisconsin, General, Rural Lifestyle