By State Sen. Daryl Schmitt (R-Jasper)
With the arrival of spring, farmers around Indiana have started planning for the planting season.
As the nation's seventh largest agricultural exporter, thousands of Hoosier farmers will soon be traveling along Indiana's roadways in heavy farm equipment, often at significantly slower speeds than a normal speed limit.
While it can be frustrating to get behind a slow-moving vehicle, farmers will pull over when they are able to do so safely allow motorists to pass.
When passing farm equipment, motorists are reminded not to pass along stretches of roadway designated as no passing zones, or within 100 feet of an intersection, railroad crossing or bridge.
Motorists are also asked not to pass farm equipment on the left without ensuring the farmer driving is not planning a left turn.
You should also avoid tailgating because some farm equipment might have to make sudden stops along the road, and you should allow plenty of time to get to a destination.
As a farmer myself, I know how much time those in the agriculture industry spend working to ensure our food supply is safe for our families. That's why it's so important to remember these tips so everyone can return home safely.
I'd like to thank all farmers for the work they put in to keep our state's agricultural heritage strong generation after generation and for the service you provide to our families and neighbors.
As always, constituents can reach out to me with any questions or concerns by email at s48@iga.in.gov or by phone at 1-800-382-9467.
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State Sen. Daryl Schmitt (R-Jasper) represents Senate District 48,
which includes Crawford, Dubois, Gibson, Perry, Pike and Spencer counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
