A Devils Lake woman was seriously injured after her Toyota Highlander collided with a Case IH tractor along Highway 20, according to the North Dakota Highway Patrol (NDHP). The crash occurred in a rural area where farm machinery and vehicle traffic often share the road — a familiar concern for drivers across central and south-central North Dakota, including Bismarck-area commuters traveling through farming zones this harvest season.
The collision highlights a broader safety issue as harvest season ramps up statewide. Farmers are transporting equipment such as combines, tractors, and grain carts on highways at slower speeds, often during early morning or dusk hours when visibility drops.
According to the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT), rural crashes involving farm vehicles spike between September and November each year — especially near agricultural hubs like Bismarck, Mandan, and Devils Lake.
While this particular incident happened north of the capital, local officials say it’s a timely reminder for Bismarck drivers who may encounter slow-moving farm machinery on Highway 83, Hwy 10, and county routes near Lincoln and Menoken.
“It’s harvest time — patience saves lives,” said Lt. Steven Fischer, NDHP. “We’re asking everyone to slow down, avoid distractions, and respect farmers sharing the roadway.”
According to the North Dakota Highway Patrol, the woman sustained serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital. The tractor operator, who was uninjured, was performing fieldwork transport at the time.
As the harvest season continues through October, Bismarck-area residents are urged to slow down on rural routes, allow extra travel time, and avoid tailgating large farm vehicles. The NDHP and NDDOT both emphasize that these safety steps protect both motorists and farmers — ensuring everyone gets home safely during one of North Dakota’s busiest agricultural months.
