ASK A TROOPER: Sharing the road with farm equipment

Question: I know the harvest is going on. Can you give some information on sharing the roads with each other? Answer: Good suggestion on a great topic. Farm equipment is allowed on Minnesota roads, too. During planting and harvest seasons, drivers should expect to encounter tractors, combines, grain wagons and other large equipment on rural roads and highways. Farm equipment moves differently from passenger vehicles. It is often wide, heavy and slow to accelerate, maneuver and stop. Some equipment may cross the center line or make wide turns. Rear-end crashes are a major concern. Crash data shows that many crashes involving farm equipment happen when another vehicle strikes it from behind. Drivers need to recognize equipment early and adjust their speed. Passing requires patience. Never pass until you have a clear view of the road ahead, enough room to complete the pass and confirmation that it is legal and safe to do so. Everyone has a role in road safety. Drivers should stay alert a