As Iowa’s 2011 corn crop continues to grow taller, motorists are urged to use extra caution at roadway intersections and railroad crossings where the driver’s view may be obstructed.

Iowa Department of Transportation statistics show during 2010 there were 46 crashes at rural intersections attributed to obstructed views by trees or crops. One person died as a result of these crashes and at least 49 people were injured. The state normally sees about two fatalities each year due to sight obstructions on rural gravel intersections and driveways.

Most rural intersections are not marked with stop or yield signs. Highway-rail grade crossings are marked with a crossbuck that serves as a yield sign.

Anytime a driver does not have a clear view of what may be coming motorists should treat these intersections as if they have stop or yield signs posted, and not enter the intersection or cross the railroad tracks until they are absolutely certain no vehicles are coming from the side roads or trains are present.