New York Launches Farm Road Safety Campaign

By Blake Jackson

New York Farm Bureau has launched its annual road safety campaign as spring planting season begins. Farmers across New York are moving tractors and other large equipment to fields, increasing the number of slow-moving vehicles on public roads. The campaign asks drivers to stay alert, slow down, and share the road safely.

A study by the New York Center for Agricultural Medicine and Health found that crashes involving farm vehicles are five times more likely to be fatal than non-agricultural crashes. Many of these incidents happen when drivers try to pass slow-moving farm machinery in unsafe areas.

To raise awareness, the Farm Bureau created two public service videos. One features a reenacted crash in partnership with Brian Schenck. The second shares the story of Joe Tyler, who was seriously injured in 2019 when another vehicle struck the tractor he was driving. Videos can be view here. Another campaign video features Joe Tyler of El-Vi Farms in Wayne County, who suffered serious injuries in 2019 when another vehicle struck the tractor he was driving. The video can be viewed, click on this.

David Fisher said, “This is the time of year when farmers are planting their fields, so there are more tractors and large equipment on the road. I urge drivers to be patient and follow the rules of the road. Pay attention, approach farm vehicles slowly, and pass them only when safe to do so. We all want to get where we’re going safely and on time, but remember: A little patience can save a life.”

Joe Tyler said, “The biggest thing with tractors is to be patient. The extra 30 seconds you want to gain to pass us could cost a life or hours of your time if there is an accident.”

Tips for Drivers:

• Slow down and keep extra distance behind equipment showing an orange slow-moving vehicle emblem.
• Never pass in a no-passing zone or where visibility is limited.
• Watch for wide turns into fields or driveways.
• Stay alert and avoid phone distractions.

Tips for Farmers:

• Display slow-moving vehicle emblems and speed identification symbols when required.
• Use flashing amber lights and proper lighting day and night.
• Stay fully in the lane and avoid soft shoulders.
• Watch for vehicles behind when turning.

The campaign reminds everyone that patience and attention can save lives during planting season.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-pablo-rodriguez1