Most of the crashes that involve farm equipment occur on a clear day, during daylight hours, and/or on a dry surface that is paved. Typical crashes with farm equipment include sideswipes and angle crashes.

These types of crashes typically occur while farm equipment is turning left and another automobile attempts to pass. In some cases, a machinery operator uses a left hand signal, and drivers may mistake this as a sign for them to pass. When the farm machinery slows to make the turn, the automobile following attempts to pass and crashes with the equipment. It is important to know that many farm machinery operators use hand signals to warn other drivers when they are turning or stopping.

When sharing the road with farm equipment, you must obey the rules of the road. It is illegal and very dangerous to pass farm equipment in a no passing zone. Farm equipment may be wider than what is visible from behind and may require ample space in both lanes. Furthermore, it may also be difficult to see traffic approaching in the opposite direction.

The key to safety when sharing the road with farm equipment is to be patient. If farm equipment is causing a delay in traffic, the operator should move off the road at the nearest practical location and allow the traffic to pass. This is the only advisable time to pass farm equipment on public roads.

During the harvesting and planting seasons, farmers work longer hours and are often on the road in the early morning and evening hours. Farm equipment is required to have one front white light as well as a rear red light that is visible for up to 500 feet. Two red reflectors that are at least four inches in diameter can replace the rear red light.

Remember, when approaching farm equipment the closure time is much quicker because of the slow speed of the equipment. Always approach farm equipment with care.

Farm equipment is legally entitled to travel on most roads in North Carolina (except interstates).