New York Farm Bureau has launched its annual road safety campaign to combat the alarming rise in deadly crashes involving farm vehicles as spring planting ramps up, warning drivers nationwide to exercise extreme caution on rural roads now.
This urgent campaign comes after a landmark 2019 study by the New York Center for Agricultural Medicine and Health (NYCAMH) revealed that crashes involving farm vehicles are five times more likely to be fatal than typical traffic collisions. Over 80% of these incidents occur when motorists attempt to pass slower farm equipment in unsafe conditions.
More Farmers, More Danger on Roads This Spring
With planting season underway, farmers across New York — especially in the Finger Lakes region where Amish and Mennonite farmers often use horse-drawn buggies and non-motorized machinery — are once again increasing their presence on roadways. This increases risk for all drivers who must share these rural roads.
New York Farm Bureau President David Fisher stresses the urgency: “This is the time of year when farmers are planting their fields, so there are more tractors and large equipment on the road. I urge drivers to be patient and follow the rules of the road. Pay attention, approach farm vehicles slowly, and pass them only when safe to do so.”
To reinforce the message, NYFB partnered with Cayuga County Sheriff Brian Schenck to produce a striking reenacted crash video aimed at educating drivers about the dangers of careless passing. The video is available for public viewing to heighten awareness.
Survivor Story Highlights Life-Threatening Risks
Joe Tyler, a farm employee at El-Vi Farms in Wayne County, shares his harrowing experience after being seriously injured in a 2019 crash when a dump truck collided with his tractor. Tyler’s story is central to the campaign’s second video, offering a personal plea for driver patience and respect on the road.
“The biggest thing with tractors is to be patient. The extra 30 seconds you want to gain to pass us could cost a life or hours of your time if there is an accident,” said Tyler. “I sustained serious injuries that were traumatic for me and my family. Please be respectful for us and the rules of the road.”
Crucial Safety Tips for Drivers and Farmers Alike
NYFB’s campaign offers clear, actionable safety advice for both drivers and farmers. Drivers are urged to:
- Slow down and increase following distance when behind vehicles displaying the Slow Moving Vehicle (SMV) triangle emblem.
- Avoid passing in no-passing zones or when visibility is limited.
- Watch for farm vehicles making wide turns or sudden maneuvers.
- Limit distractions and look far down the road—at 60 mph a vehicle travels 88 feet per second.
Farmers are reminded of critical equipment safety measures, including:
- Displaying proper slow-moving vehicle and speed identification symbols during road travel.
- Never exceeding the rated speed on trailed implements.
- Using flashing amber lights at all times for visibility.
- Staying fully in lanes to prevent dangerous rollovers on soft shoulders.
- Remaining alert for vehicles approaching from behind.
Why This Matters to Nevada and America
Though this campaign originates in New York, the lessons are vital for rural and farming communities across the United States, including Nevada, where farm equipment frequently shares rural highways with passenger vehicles. With agricultural machinery moving slowly and unpredictably, the risk of deadly collisions is a national concern as spring planting and harvest seasons bring more equipment onto roads.
Public safety officials nationwide encourage all drivers to adopt patience and vigilance now to prevent fatalities. The smallest mistake or rush to pass can cost lives and devastate families.
What’s Next?
New York Farm Bureau urges immediate public support and vigilance as the campaign gains traction. Drivers and farmers are encouraged to share the safety videos and tips widely on social media to reach as many road users as possible during this critical time.
With more farm vehicles on roadways now, the message is clear: a few seconds of patience can prevent tragic crashes and save lives.
For more information and to view the campaign videos, visit bit.ly/SharetheRoad25 and bit.ly/SharetheRoad25-2.
