Farm machinery moves quite slowly compared to other road users. Most tractors and combines have a maximum speed of 40 km/h, but travel at less than 40 km/h when towing implements or wagons. Farm machinery is often oversized, wide or long or both, making it difficult for the driver to see vehicles coming up from behind. Farmers often turn directly into fields rather than roads or lanes, or move from lane to lane. Remember that it is common for farmers to be on the roads after dark during peak planting and harvesting seasons.
Farm machinery on the road must display an orange and red slow-moving sign on the rear of the vehicle. The sign warns other drivers that the vehicle is travelling at 40 km/h or less. If you see one of these signs, slow down and be cautious. Stay well back and do not pass until it is safe to do so.
When approaching farm equipment from behind, reduce your speed early and maintain a safe following distance. Farm equipment operators may not be able to see you approaching, especially if their equipment creates dust or blocks their rearward visibility.
Be patient when following farm equipment. These vehicles may travel much slower than the posted speed limit, but they have every right to use the road. Passing should only be attempted when you have a clear view of oncoming traffic and sufficient distance to complete the maneuver safely.
Farm equipment may make wide turns or sudden stops. Operators may need to position their equipment for field access or avoid obstacles. Be prepared for unexpected movements and maintain extra space around farm vehicles.
During peak agricultural seasons, farm equipment may be on roads at unusual hours, including early morning, late evening, and after dark. Equipment may not have full lighting systems, making them difficult to see in low-light conditions.
Some farm equipment may extend beyond normal lane widths or have implements that project from the sides. Give extra room when meeting or passing this equipment, and be aware that normal passing distances may not be sufficient.
Farm machinery maximum 40 km/h, often travels slower with implements
Often oversized, wide or long, making rearward visibility difficult
Farmers may turn directly into fields or move between lanes
Common on roads after dark during planting/harvesting seasons
Must display orange and red slow-moving sign on rear