DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - As spring planting season ramps up across Central Illinois, farmers are returning to the field.
This time of year often brings an increase in traffic and heightened safety risks for both those working the land and drivers on rural roads.
According to COUNTRY Financial, farm equipment collisions remain the most common claim during planting season. The company reported more than 180 collision claims between March and June 2025, including crashes involving other vehicles on roadways as well as incidents with buildings and equipment on farms.
“The planting window is short, and farmers can’t afford to lose time to setbacks from accidents, which unfortunately can happen when rushed or not prepared,” said Zack Hinthorn, an agribusiness underwriter with the company. “Taking time now, before the rush begins, keeps farmers safe and operations running smoothly.”
Local COUNTRY Financial representative Tim Young said preparation often starts well before planting begins.
“Well, I think one of the things they do is during the wintertime, they go over all their equipment, obviously, to make sure mechanically it’s working,” Young said. “Then they make sure all the lights and all the safety things are in place for them.”
Visibility is one of the biggest concerns this time of year, especially as large equipment travels between fields. Safety experts say many crashes happen at dawn or dusk when drivers may not expect to encounter slow-moving vehicles.
Farmers are encouraged to use flashing lights, keep reflective tape and slow-moving vehicle emblems clean, and ensure all lights are functioning properly. Turn signals are also critical, as drivers can misinterpret a tractor moving to the right before making a left turn.
Young said the size of today’s farm equipment can also make it difficult to share the road.
“This is big machinery anymore, and they cannot get over on the road,” Young said. “We have had a lot of sideswipes… where the vehicles can’t get over.”
For drivers, patience can make a life-saving difference.
“I think a lot of them are avoidable, actually, just by simply taking your time,” Young said. “You may have to stop. It may cost you a couple of minutes, but that’s well worth the time spent for the problems that an accident can cause.”
Preparation off the roadway is just as important. Equipment malfunctions are another leading cause of accidents, making routine maintenance essential before heading into the fields. Inspecting machinery, replacing worn parts, and ensuring equipment is in working order can help prevent breakdowns and injuries.
Chemical safety is also a key focus during planting season, as farmers handle fertilizers, pesticides, and other hazardous materials. Experts recommend reviewing safety procedures with workers, keeping Safety Data Sheets accessible, and using protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and masks.
In addition to physical safety, farmers are also being reminded to secure their equipment and property. Theft can increase during planting season, particularly when tools or machinery are left unattended in fields or when sheds are left unlocked.
Young also emphasized the importance of taking care of personal health during the busy season.
“Make sure you’re getting some rest,” he said. “They work really hard… so make sure you’re taking care of yourself.”
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