SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois State Police (ISP) reminds motorists to use caution this spring when traveling on rural roadways. As farmers begin traveling to their fields, many will do so in slow moving farm equipment at speeds of 25 miles per hour or below.
"The planting season is here once again, and the Illinois State Police wants this to be a safe one for farmers and motorists alike," said ISP Director Sam W. Nolen. "Motorists should be aware of farm vehicles and prepare to slow down when encountering them."
Motorists are reminded of the following farm safety tips:
Remain calm when following farm vehicles. Do not attempt to pass the implement unless it is legal and safe to do so. When approaching a blind intersection or coming to the top of a hill, slow down and be prepared to share the road with an oversized farm vehicle. When following a farm implement, do not assume the driver is aware of your presence. Be cautious of farm vehicles leaving the roadway to turn into a field Always wear your seat belt and make sure passengers are buckled up.
Illinois Department of Transportation statistics for 1996-2000 indicate that 1,357 crashes occurred involving farm equipment with 426 people injured and 21 killed. | 
