THE PROBLEM

• Driving tractor mowers at high speeds increases the risk of accidents, including overturns.

• Quick maneuvers in tight spaces or on slopes can also cause rollovers. Using the brakes while turning adds to this risk.

DRIVING TO THE WORK AREA

• Make sure the tractor has a slow-moving vehicle emblem, working lights, and warning flags.

• If the tractor is equipped with a rollover protective structure (ROPS), always fasten your seat belt. Equipment with a ROPS must have a seat belt.

• If the mowing attachment does not have its own brake system, maintain a safe, slow speed. Avoid very sharp turns, as they can cause attachments to jackknife.

• Always allow traffic to clear and ensure you have enough time to cross a highway safely.

• Any mowing attachments—such as over-the-fence mowers or batwing mowers—should be properly stowed and secured according to the owner’s manual.

WORK AREA SAFETY 

• Before starting work, make sure "Mowing Ahead" signs are in place according to local guidelines and as terrain allows, taking sightlines and cross streets into account. For previously designated routes, use a shadow vehicle.

• Be alert for rough ground, large pieces of litter, culvert holes, rocks, tree stumps, utility boxes, and guide wires on utility poles.

• If you get stuck in a ditch, do not rev the engine or pop the clutch. First, try backing out. If you can only move forward, you may need to dig out in front of the rear wheels, shift into low gear, release the clutch slowly, and use the brake on any spinning tires.

OPERATING ON SLOPES

• When starting up a hill, release the clutch slowly. Popping it can cause the mower to tip backward. You may also consider backing up the hill if possible.

• If the tractor begins to tip, steer the front wheels downhill to increase stability and help prevent an overturn.

• Keep the tractor in gear while going downhill, letting the engine act as a brake. Use both brake pedals if necessary, and never take the tractor out of gear.