The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is urging caution on the country’s road as the harvest season continues.
All drivers are being urged to be on the lookout for tractors, trailers and other farm machinery on the road.
If you are travelling behind farm machinery, please be patient and only overtake when it’s safe to do so. Farmers should also be aware of traffic building up behind them.
Drivers of agricultural vehicles are being reminded that they are subject to all road traffic legislation. They are required to carry the appropriate licence and farm vehicles are required to be taxed, insured and must be roadworthy, including fully operational lights front and rear.
Farmers are also being reminded of the following safety tips:
- Plan and prepare for all work with machinery. Always allow adequate time for the job.
- Always practice the SAFE STOP procedure. Reverse park safely, handbrake on, controls in neutral, lower all attachments, engine off and remove keys!
- Carry out regular checks and maintenance of all farm vehicles, particularly brakes.
- Never remove or modify guards in order to save time.
- Only use machines if you know how to use them safely and have received suitable training.
- Always drive at a safe speed and know your limits.