Warmer weather in Wisconsin means farmers will be ramping up their planting activity. The Pierce County Sheriff’s Office is reminding motorists to use caution on roadways. Farm machinery usually moves at speeds of 15-25mph, so be alert, be patient and share the road.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were over 2,560 fatal crashes in 2018 involving tractors. Most of the crashes occurred in the spring/summer months.

The Pierce County Sheriff’s Office is offering the following reminders: Motorists:

•Don’t pass in no passing zones or within 100 feet of an intersection, railroad crossing or bridge

•Pass with care. Farm machinery is often wide, taking up a good portion of the roadway.

•Avoid tailgating. Some farmer equipment might make sudden stops.

Farmers:

•Conduct a pre-ride inspection, making sure all lights and signals work properly

•Display a slow-moving vehicle sign—a red triangle-shaped reflector

•Be aware of traffic building up behind you Safety for farmers isn’t just for the road. Pierce County Lieutenant Herman Kreig says, “Families have had a dangerous tradition of allowing children to ride on tractors, but you should never allow a rider on the drawbar, fender, lap or loader bucket. Riders face the hazard of being run over as they are the first to bounce off the tractor.”

Let’s work together to ensure safety for everyone!