Proper braking of the tractor also reduces the chance of upset. Braking only one pedal at higher speeds can force your vehicle to swerve abruptly and roll over. When travelling downhill, shift to a lower speed before you begin to descend and let the engine do most of the braking. This will help avoid the possibility of a runaway tractor which could flip over. The safety-minded operator will avoid crossing steep slopes with his tractor if at all possible.
Tractors are less stable on hillsides and can be easily over-turned.
If you must work on slopes, however, use tractors with wide front ends and space your rear tires as far apart as possible. Watch for bumps or depressions and cross the slope slowly, keeping any side-mounted equipment on the uphill side of the tractor. Together with safe operation of the tractor, it is a good idea to safeguard yourself with the extra protection provided by a roll-over protective structure. Roll-over protective structures are either protective frames or protective enclosures which, when mounted on the tractor, will limit most upsets to 90 degrees as well as protect the operator, particularly if the operator is wearing the seatbelt. The safety oriented operator must always be concerned about maintaining his tractor in a stable position.