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The Blair County Farm Bureau is proud to recognize Rural Roads Safety Week from April 13-19, and we encourage all county motorists to drive with caution and care on our roadways this spring and throughout the year.
As the planting season begins, farmers will be returning to the fields, and once again, large farm equipment such as tractors, farm trucks, and wagons will be traveling along Pennsylvania's rural roads. For distracted or impatient drivers, these vehicles can pose a risk if safe driving practices are not followed. For instance, when a car traveling at 55 mph encounters a tractor moving at 15 mph, it only takes five seconds to close the gap the length of a football field between the two vehicles.
We ask motorists to be mindful of their speed when driving on roads where they may encounter large farm machinery. Always slow down immediately when you spot the Slow Moving Vehicle (SMV) emblem -- an orange triangle with a red border -- attached to any farm vehicle.
Farmers are often aware of the inconvenience their vehicles may cause and will sometimes pull onto the shoulder of the roadway to allow for easier passing. However, this is not always possible, especially if the shoulder is soft, wet, or steep. In those cases, farmers cannot safely move over, as it could risk tipping their equipment. If you find yourself in a situation where passing is necessary, please proceed with extreme caution.
On behalf of the Blair County Farm Bureau, I encourage everyone to stay vigilant and considerate of farm vehicles during their travels on rural roads. Together, we can help ensure a safe driving environment for both motorists and farmers.
Mark Heeter, Tyrone
Farmer and President, Blair County Farm Bureau