MnDOT cautions motorists to watch for large, slow-moving farm equipment this spring

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has announced that motorists traveling in Minnesota this spring should watch for large, slow-moving farm equipment and drive with caution, according to the Minnesota Department

Crash data shows there were 374 crashes involving farm equipment in Minnesota since 2019, resulting in eight deaths and 133 injuries. Inattentive driving and speed were the biggest contributing factors in those crashes.

Farm equipment is large and heavy, making it hard for operators to accelerate, slow down and stop. The equipment also makes wide turns and sometimes crosses over the center line. In addition, farm vehicles can create large blind spots, making it difficult for operators to see approaching vehicles. 

Motorists should:

• Slow down and use caution when approaching farm equipment
• Watch for debris dropped by farm equipment 
• Wait for a safe place to pass
• Drive with headlights on at all times

Farm equipment operators should:

• Use lights and flashers to make equipment more visible
• Use slow-moving vehicle emblems on equipment traveling less than 30 mph
• Consider using a follow vehicle when moving equipment, especially at night