As planting season begins across Illinois, farmers are heading to both the fields and the roadways. Safety experts state that, out of all other times of the year, now is the best time to really be staying alert both on the farm and on the road.

According to Country Financial, collisions involving farm equipment are the most common insurance claims among its farm clients during the spring planting months. In the previous year, from March through June, Country Financial received more than 180 collision claims. These included claims for accidents involving farm equipment with vehicles on public roads, as well as incidents where equipment collided with buildings or other machinery on the farms themselves.

Zack Hinthorn, an underwriter of agribusiness at Country Financial, points out that the planting window is short. Considering that a farm vehicle like a tractor or combine is crucial to the operation of the farm, farmers can’t afford setbacks caused by accidents involving their farm vehicles. So, as a resolution to potential setbacks, it is recommended that you take time to properly prepare before the rush, to help keep operations running smoothly.

To reduce risk during this busy season while driving or operating farm equipment, Hinthorn recommends that you practice increased visibility on the road with flashing lights, clean reflective tape, and clearly visible “Slow Moving Vehicle” emblems on your equipment.

It is also critical that you utilize proper signaling while entering or driving farming vehicles on main streets. This is critical as it can be hard for other drivers to anticipate the next move a farm vehicle will make.

Other recommendations from Hinthorn for farm equipment operators include always staying alert when driving, routine equipment inspection and maintenance to avoid any potential breakdowns, safe practices when handling chemicals, keeping up to date on insurance, and preventing theft by securing your equipment. Most importantly, always remember to prioritize your health.

Farm and agriculture safety tips for handling chemicals, machinery, utility vehicles, equipment, and more can be found at www.saif.com or www.cultivatesafety.org