Stay safe on rural roads: Tips for motorist safety

INDIANAPOLIS — According to the Federal Highway Administration, 32% of total vehicle miles traveled in 2022 were in rural areas.

However, rural areas accounted for 41% of all traffic fatalities.

John Nagel, Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance farm training specialist, broke down the importance of road safety — especially in rural areas — during an INFB podcast.

“If you’re driving, whether you’re in the tractor or you’re a motorist on the road, make sure you see and you’re being seen,” he said. “You’re looking ahead and being patient.

“If you do get behind a piece of machinery, just be patient. Those farmers are going to get over as soon as it’s possibly safe for both them and you to pass.”

In case of an accident, it’s important to stay calm, Nagel advised.

“An accident is a very stressful situation,” he said. “First, make sure that everyone is safe. If there are any injuries, call first responders.

“No matter what, I highly recommend calling law enforcement to protect both people. That’s a third party who can come in, look at the accident and investigate if needed. Otherwise, it may become a situation of he said, she said.

“If medical personnel are there, get checked out. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.”

Once the scene is secured, document as much as possible. Take photos of the scene and obtain contact information of those involved.

Lastly, contact your insurance company.

Road Safety Tips

• Avoid distractions.

• Most farmers will pull over when they are able to let you pass, but it may take time for them to get to a safe place to do so. Be careful and patient when passing.

• Do not pass within 100 feet of any intersection, railroad grade crossing, bridge, elevation structure or tunnel.

• Do not tailgate farm vehicles, as they might have to make sudden stops along the road.

• Do not try to pass a slow-moving vehicle on the left without ensuring that the vehicle is not planning a left turn. It may appear that the driver is pulling over for you to pass when it is actually preparing to turn. You could drive right into its path, endangering yourself and the farmer.

• Farm equipment is wide, sometimes taking up most of the roadway. Exercise caution when passing.

• Be aware of alternate routes and allow plenty of time to get to your destination.