As spring gets into full swing, Illinois farmers are hitting the fields for the start of planting season. With tractors, planters, and other large equipment on the move, drivers across the state are reminded to slow down, stay alert, and share the road.

Farmers across Illinois are working long hours to prepare and plant their fields, which means increased farm equipment on the roadways. This equipment often travels at much slower speeds and may take up more space than a typical vehicle. In many rural areas, narrow roads and limited visibility can create added risks during this busy time of year.

The American Farm Bureau Federation offers the following tips to help keep the roadways safe for everyone:

1. Be alert and cautious. Give large farm equipment and other slow-moving vehicles space.
2. Do not pass if you are in a space designated as a “No Passing Zone” or in any area where it is not safe to do so—intersections, bridges and railroad crossings, among others.
3. Make sure the tractor isn’t trying to make a left turn before you pass on the left.
4. Don’t tailgate.
5. Be careful when you do get the chance to pass. Farmers will often move their equipment over when it is safe to do so.