The Road Safety Authority (RSA) and the Irish Farmers Association (IFA) are appealing to motorists to take extra care as the number of tractors, trailers and other farm machinery using the roads increases during the summer season.
The RSA and the IFA want farming contractors and other drivers to be mindful of other road users and to always be on the lookout for vulnerable road users such as cyclists and pedestrians.
Drivers of agricultural vehicles are also 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.
“This is a very busy time of year for farmers,” said Sam Waide, Chief Executive at RSA.
“The number of tractors and trailers out using the roads will increase dramatically. I am asking drivers and motorcyclists to be on the lookout for tractors, trailers and other farm machinery on the road, turning into and out of fields.’’
The Irish Farmers Association has urged motorists to be patient and not to overtake slow-moving machinery when it isn’t safe to do so. Tractors drivers are also reminded to identify somewhere they can safely pull in and allow traffic to pass.
“With co-operation on all sides, we can keep our roads safe for everybody,” added IFA President Francie Gorman.
