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N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Harvest season is underway throughout the state and the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) is urging motorists to use caution as large farm equipment is out on the roadways this time of year. 

Motorists are encouraged to be cautious as they drive on roadways, as slow moving farm equipment maybe present. Crashes are due to inattention, speeding and unsafe passing. When approaching farm equipment, motorists need to slow down and pass with caution.

Farm equipment is very large and heavy making it extremely difficult for operators to accelerate, slow down and stop. These vehicles also have large blind spots, making it difficult for operators to see approaching vehicles.

Motorists are reminded:

Watch for mud and debris on the roadway as trucks go directly from the field onto the highway.
Be aware that you can encounter farm equipment at any time of day.
Drive with headlights on at all times.
Wear seatbelts.

In addition, farmers are reminded of the opportunity to get 10 percent extra weight permits that can be issued to expedite the first haul of farm products during harvest and for the collection and transport of sugar beets and potatoes at https://www.nd.gov/ndhp/10-harvest-permit. Additionally, farmers should be aware that road construction projects are finishing up this time of year as well. Some roads may be inaccessible to large farm equipment.

Farm equipment operators are reminded:
· Per Century Code 39-21-50, all slow-moving vehicles designed to operate at a speed of less than 25 mph are required to display slow-moving vehicle identification emblem or a rotating or flashing amber light, as authorized for a class B emergency vehicle.
To consider using a follow vehicle when moving equipment, especially at night.

For the most current progress on construction projects call 511 or go to the Travel Information Map on the NDDOT website at www.dot.nd.gov.