Safety Tips for Operating Your Farm Equipment on the Road

As a farm equipment owner, you know there are certain times when it is necessary to use your machinery on public roads. For example, you might require moving your equipment from one farm to another or bringing your machine to a service department for routine maintenance. If you plan to operate your equipment on the road, here are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your safety and the safety of others around you.

Familiarize Yourself with Local Traffic Laws

You want to abide by the local traffic rules and regulations when driving your farm equipment on the road. This includes obeying speed limits, using turn signals, and following the right-of-way rules. You also want to adhere to local or state ordinances that may apply to farm equipment operation.

Install Proper Signage

Next, you want to install a slow-moving vehicle (SMV) sign on your farm machinery, preferably at a spot that’s easily visible to other motorists behind you. If you’re hauling a payload that blocks the sign, you want to mount the signage on the cargo instead.

Leave Extra Distance Ahead of You

Another way to stay safe when driving farm equipment down a public highway is to leave extra space between yourself and the vehicle ahead of you. This will give you time and room to maneuver out of harm’s way if the driver in front of you suddenly pull the brakes.

Make Yourself Visible

Finally, you want to outfit your vehicle with extra lights and flags to ensure other drivers can conveniently spot you, especially during dim light conditions. Ideally, install bright LED lights on your farm equipment and wear high-visibility clothing.

We hope you find this guide handy when operating your farm equipment on a public road. If you need more safety advice or are still in the market for a machine, visit Holder and Sons Equipment. We proudly serve Durham, Raleigh, and Greensboro, NC, so swing by today.