TIPS for SHARING THE ROAD with slow moving vehicles

New York farmers are gearing up for spring planting, which means more large farm equipment, like tractors, will be on the roads. New York Farm Bureau reminds drivers to be cautious and share the road as the organization launches its annual road safety campaign.

TIPS for SHARING THE ROAD with slow-moving vehicles:

The motoring public has a responsibility to slow down as soon as any slow-moving vehicle, including bicycles, is seen displaying the slow-moving vehicle emblem. Also, obey the road markings and do not pass on a double yellow line.

Use Caution. Caution should be used when a farm vehicle is preparing to turn left. Too often, motorists incorrectly assume the tractor is stopping on the right-hand side of the road or turning right when the tractor driver is actually swinging wide to be able to line up with a driveway or field access point. The majority of modern tractors have turn signals - so be cautious.

• Drive defensively especially during spring planting and fall harvest seasons.
• Slow down once a vehicle with a slow moving vehicle emblem is seen and stay back 50 feet.
• When safe to pass, do so carefully and consider a brief honk of the horn to let the tractor driver know you are there. However, do not honk the horn when approaching bicycles or buggies
• If a large vehicle is coming in the opposite direction, prepare to pull over.
• Be patient and check for turn signals indicating if the driver is preparing to turn.

Last updated April 17, 2025