Mode 3: Big Movers shifts our focus to large vehicles, as the vehicles are often found on rural roadways transporting goods and services as well as people.

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In fact, 48 percent of truck vehicle miles traveled in the U.S. occur in rural areas.

The size of these vehicles have their own challenges including but not limited to:

• Driver training
• Mobility (need larger turning radius)
• Visibility of other vehicles around them
• Incident management
• Size restrictions
• Drivers need more stop time to avoid fatigue

It is important that Big Movers operators and all other road users share the responsbility for safety. These specialized vehicles may require additional precautions. Some examples:

• When you see an emeregcny vehicles with their flashing lights on, it is important to move over to keep first responders safe.
• Snow plows are hard to see due to the inherent nature of their work during inclement weather so make sure you don’t crowd the plow and never pass on the right.
• Farm equipment is frequently seen in rural areas and is a slow moving vehicle (SMV) so remember to watch for the slow moving vehicle emblem and then “slow down, assess your surroundings and move with caution.”

Over #RRSAW2026, we are exploring ways to implement road safety strategies for all rural modes, particularly those that can reduce fatalities and serious injuries and get everyone home safely.