Dubois County Deputies Urge Drivers to Use Caution on the Roads This Harvest Season

FROM LOCAL SOURCES

JASPER -- The Dubois County Sheriff’s Office is reminding drivers to use caution as local farmers begin to harvest their crops.

Deputies remind you to be cautious, be patient, and be safe, as there will be an increase in farm equipment on some local roadways.

Remember, these pieces of equipment move slowly (under 25 miles per hour). 

The following list includes several safety tips for motorists approaching large farm equipment:

• Most farmers will pull over when they are able to let you pass, but it may take time for them to get to a safe place to do so. Be careful and patient when passing.
• Allow plenty of time to get to your destination, be aware of alternate routes and avoid distractions.
• Do not pass within 100 feet of any intersection, railroad grade crossing, bridge, elevation structure, or tunnel.
• Farm equipment is wide, sometimes taking up most of the roadway. Exercise caution when passing.
• Do not tailgate farm vehicles, as they might have to make sudden stops along the road.
• Do not try to pass a slow-moving vehicle on the left without ensuring that the vehicle is not planning a left turn. It may appear that the driver is pulling over for you to pass when it is actually preparing to turn. You will drive right into its path, endangering yourself and the farmer.