To view the full print/pdf version of Volume 1, Issue 3 of Currents, click here

For previous issues of Currents, visit our Currents Library

A Rural Road Safety Reminder

When driving on local roads this time of year, stay mindful of slow-moving farm vehicles on the road.

With farmers reaping their harvests in the spring and summer, its not uncommon to find a farmer navigating heavy machinery along the rural roads of our service territory. When you find yourself behind such a vehicle, we urge that you use caution and patience before passing them on the left side. Your safety, their safety, and the safety of other drivers and pedestrians can be at stake!

You may remember recent headlines that remarked on a steep increase in fatal car accidents in New Jersey in the second half of last year. There were nearly 700 fatalities resulting from around 650 car crashes in New Jersey in 2022.

While not all of these were on rural roads, it is important to keep in mind that these types of accidents are not limited to highways or turnpikes. We have our own hazards that we’re all aware of – work zones, animals, or fallen trees – but don’t underestimate the danger you can face while passing farm equipment on the road!

Farmers acknowledge that being stuck behind such slow-moving vehicles can be frustrating and often will pull over to let other motorists pass, but you must use caution before passing them — for everybody’s sake.

Always be sure that there is no oncoming traffic in the left lane before passing, and never pass in a no-passing zone or within 100 feet of an intersection. Do not tailgate the farmer or other drivers. Also, always consider that farmers pulling to the right may be about to make a wide left turn. Stay attentive of your surroundings and don’t be reckless. It could save your life!