3 Safety Tips for Driving a Tractor on the Road

As the summer months near, the likelihood of having to drive your farming equipment on the road grows. This means familiarizing yourself once again with the rules of the road as well as driving with other motorists in the Johnson City and Greeneville, Tennessee, areas who may be driving alongside a tractor for the first time. We at West Hills Tractor want to make sure that you are safe while on the road with large farming equipment. Feel free to reach out to us for more on our services and equipment. The following information includes a few tips to keep in mind the next time you hit the road with your tractor.

1. Increase Your Tractor's Visibility

No matter how sunny it is, it's always a good idea to increase your tractor's visibility while you're riding it. This can be done by doing a few simple things, such as adding an SMV (slow moving vehicle) sign and adding reflective tape to the sides of your tractor. If you can, try to avoid driving your tractor on the roads at night. Some drivers around the Johnson City and Greeneville, Tennessee, areas may not be familiar with the practice of driving farming equipment on the road and thus are less likely to slow down. However, if you must drive at night, always make sure that all your lights are on and working properly.

2. Practice Patience

When you drive your tractor or other farming equipment on the road, you have to follow the same rules as everyone else. That is why it is so important to practice patience. This means understanding that you may need to pull over to allow cars to pass by or simply not speeding yourself. In addition, you are going to encounter some not-so-pleasant drivers. Always keep a cool head and do not give them the attention they want. This will protect you and everyone else on the road.

3. Attempt to Get an Escort Vehicle if Possible

If the distance isn't too great and someone is willing to help you, have someone act as an escort vehicle for your tractor. You can have your escort vehicle either in the back or the front of your tractor, but most tend to want them in the back as a means of warning drivers of a slow-moving vehicle up ahead.

If your current tractor isn't in the best condition to hit the road anytime soon, talk with our friendly staff at West Hills Tractor. Here, you'll find friendly associates and an incredible amount of inventory to choose from. You can visit us at our physical location in Jonesborough, Tennessee.