(KNZA)--Use caution on area roads as farm equipment becomes more prevalent.

That word comes from area authorities, with Brown County Sheriff John Merchant saying the increase comes as planting season begins, with area farmers starting to get into fields to conduct planting work.

Most farm equipment is not designed to travel at highway speeds, and may only travel 15-25 mph. It’s often wider than the lane of traffic, so extra room should be allowed when sharing the road.

Merchant adds that when approaching hills on country roads, motorists need to slow down as they approach the top, and be ready to pull to the side if meeting farm equipment.