Illinois State Police are reminding motorists and farmers to share the road safely as fall harvest brings more slow-moving farm equipment onto Illinois highways.
According to Illinois Department of Transportation data, 275 crashes involving farm tractors or equipment occurred statewide in 2024.
State Police urge motorists approaching farm machinery to slow down and increase following distance. Drivers should watch for amber flashing lights and slow-moving vehicle emblems, as well as hand signals from operators of older equipment that may not have turn signals.
Motorists should also be prepared for combines, tractors and loaded grain trucks entering highways from fields and rural roads. Heavy equipment may require additional time to reach highway speeds.
Passing is prohibited in no-passing zones and within 100 feet of intersections, railroad crossings and bridges.
Farmers are encouraged to avoid moving equipment during peak traffic periods, poor weather and after dark when possible. Operators should also keep lights and reflectors free of dust and debris and safely pull onto the shoulder when possible to allow backed-up traffic to pass.
State Police are asking everyone to remain patient and alert as harvest activity continues across Illinois.