As June arrives in Ohio, so does one of the most beautiful—and potentially hazardous—parts of rural life: fast-growing crops. In just a few short weeks, cornfields will rise high enough to limit visibility at intersections, driveways, and cross roads across the countryside.

At Jim Yarger’s Body Shop, we see firsthand how quickly things can change on rural roads when sightlines disappear behind tall corn. It only takes a moment of limited visibility for a near-miss—or worse—to happen.

According to the Federal Highway Administration, nearly 50% of all traffic fatalities occur on rural roads, even though they carry far less traffic than urban areas. In addition, intersections in rural settings are especially dangerous due to limited lighting, higher travel speeds, and obstructed views during peak growing season.

As the corn continues to rise, here are a few simple reminders for safer summer driving:

• Slow down when approaching rural intersections and intersections with obstructed views
• Come to a complete stop and “inch forward” when visibility is limited
• Use extra caution during dawn and dusk when visibility is already reduced
• Expect the unexpected—especially on familiar back roads

Summer in Ohio is a great time of year, but it’s also when a little extra awareness goes a long way.

From all of us at Jim Yarger’s Body Shop, please drive safely and enjoy the season ahead.