Most rural roads in Nebraska are gravel or dirt that allows vegetation overgrowth on the shoulders. Gravel and dirt increase braking distances compared to hard, surfaced roads. Rural roads also are likely to have more potholes or soft spots, particularly during spring thaws. Rural roads usually are narrower and have steeper ditches.
The most dangerous vehicles to drive on rural roads, and the ones most common in single-vehicle incidents, are pickups and SUVs. Since they have a higher center of gravity, they are more likely to roll.
Rural roads often have a limited sight distance at intersections, and some people run stop signs or drive faster than the speed limit. Two-vehicle head-on collisions often happen when two cars meet at the crest of a hill. Drivers also need to watch for livestock, wild animals and pedestrians accompanied by domestic animals.
Pedestrians should not walk on rural roads at night when there is limited visibility. When walking or running on rural roads, wear as much reflective clothing material as possible and carry a light. Always walk on the shoulder facing oncoming traffic so vehicles posing the greatest threat can be seen earlier.
Farmers moving large equipment on heavily traveled rural roads at night should use an escort vehicle with flashers on. Reflective paint or strips will help show the outline of farm equipment during reduced visibility. It is not legal to operate any farm equipment on public roads other than during daylight hours. Slow-moving vehicle signs must be displayed on tractors and machinery operating at 25 mph or slower. Warning flashers should be functional and on whenever operating on public roads.
During the end of winter and beginning of spring, rural roads get softer and often have snow and ice on them. Drivers often tend to speed up on a good stretch of road, and then hit ice and lose control of the vehicle. Maintain a slower speed the entire time while on rural roads.
Populations in some of rural Nebraska areas can increase during summer and fall because of farming. Farmers Truckers and other drivers need to watch out for the increased traffic. Farmers should consider the times when moving equipment and when visibility is best for everybody. All drivers should make sure their windows are clean, their mirrors are set and that they use defensive driving.
Spring planting time also sees increased rural road traffic from farmers. Drivers that drive often in rural areas should have a good awareness for increased farm traffic. They just need to slow down and keep a look out.
Do not ever drive under the influence. Alcohol is always a problem, but prescription medications also are becoming an issue for drivers as well. If a person is seen driving erratically, report them to law enforcement. Get them off the roads. They might hit someone else later.
SOURCE: Dave Morgan, UNL safety engineer
