Wisconsin State Patrol reminds drivers, animal-drawn vehicle operators to safely share the road

Animal-drawn vehicles can be a common sight on Wisconsin roads, depending on where you are in the state. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation Division of State Patrol is reminding both animal-drawn vehicle operators and motorists to stay alert, watch for one another, and safely share the road for the May Law of the Month.
“Animal-drawn vehicles often travel below the speed limit, making it essential for all road users to stay aware and be courteous to others,” Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan said. “If you approach an animal-drawn vehicle, slow down, proceed with caution, and pass only when it’s safe and legal to do so.”
According to preliminary data, there have been 165 crashes involving animal-drawn vehicles in the past five years in Wisconsin, resulting in 12 fatalities and 186 injuries.

Safe operation of animal-drawn vehicles

Animal-drawn vehicles have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicles and may operate in the lane of traffic or on the shoulder of the road. A slow-moving vehicle emblem on the back is required to alert other drivers and increase visibility. In addition, animal-drawn vehicles traveling at a speed slow enough to disrupt the normal flow of traffic should move over when safe and practical to do so.

During hours of darkness or inclement weather, lights help increase visibility for all road users. According to state law, lights on animal-drawn vehicles must be properly operating, visible at 500 feet, and include all of the following:
• At least one white light on the front
• Two red lights on the back indicating the width of the vehicle
• Two yellow or amber flashing strobe lights on the back mounted not more than six inches from each side
In addition, using rubber tires can help maintain the condition of the road.
Tips for motorists
Safety on the road is a shared responsibility, and motorists have an important role in preventing crashes.

Motorists:
• Be mindful of others on the road, especially slow-moving vehicles on rural roads.
• Maintain a safe following distance, allowing plenty of space for animal-drawn vehicles.

• Keep in mind that animals can be unpredictable, especially when startled by loud noises. Use your horn and other warning devices carefully and only if necessary. If passing or meeting a frightened animal, state statute requires a driver to stop if possible until the animal is under control.
• Pass with caution. Reduce your speed and stay alert for driveways and intersections that may be in the area.
• Watch for animal-drawn vehicles turning and slowing down.
• Keep your eyes on the road. Distracted driving was the most common factor in animal-drawn vehicle crashes in Wisconsin over the past five years. Buckle up, phone down. Every trip. Every time.
• Slow down. Speed increases the severity of crashes and decreases stopping distance.

View the May Law of the Month video and news release online: wisconsindot.gov/Pages/about-wisdot/newsroom/law/lom.aspx.