MSHP urges everyone to practice safe driving during harvest season

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KBSI) – The Missouri State Highway Patrol urges farmers and drivers to stay alert during harvest season.

In 2022, 117 Missouri traffic crashes involved farm equipment or implements leaving seven people dead and 63 injured, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

Farmers are asked to do the following:

• Ensure equipment is marked with lights and a “slow moving vehicle” emblem when traveling on the road.
• Pull off to the side of the road in a level area when traffic accumulates.
• When using an ATV only travel on the highway during daylight hours, be equipped with lights, bicycle flag and “slow moving vehicle” emblem. Wearing a helmet while operating the vehicle is also recommended by the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

Drivers are asked to do the following:

• Stay alert for slow moving farm equipment.
• Be patient and slow down when driving behind a tractor or any farm equipment.
• Wait to pass until you have a clear view of the road ahead and never pass on a curve or hill.
• Pay close attention to farm equipment entering and leaving from side roads and driveways.