New silage season safety warnings

RURAL road users in County Wicklow have been urged to be extra vigilant around safety as silage cutting season gets underway.

The IFA, ICMSA and the Road Safety Authority (RSA) have each issued an appeal to drivers of farming machinery and vulnerable road users to share the road safely in the coming weeks. Due to Covid-19 public health measures, many roads are busier with pedestrians and cyclists at a time when farm traffic also increases.

IFA president Tim Cullinan said, ‘It’s going to be a busy time on farms in the coming weeks as farming contractors begin bringing in the silage around the country. Normally at this time of the year, both the IFA and the RSA appeal for motorists to be on the lookout for tractors, trailers and other agricultural machinery exiting from fields and farmyards and, while traffic volumes have reduced, this advice still stands.

‘However, we are making a special appeal this year in light of the current situation to ask that anyone driving farm machinery, especially on rural roads, to cut back on their speed and understand that around every corner could be a neighbouring family or friend out for a walk, jog or a cycle within 5km of their home. We should all expect the unexpected – we have learned already this year, whether on the farm or on the road, there is no place for complacency.’

A large increase in traffic is expected in the coming weeks as farmers cut, bale and bring in silage. Walkers, runners and cyclists who are out exercising have been asked to follow the Rules of the Road and to use a footpath where one is provided. Where there is no footpath, they must walk as near as possible to the right-hand side of the road facing oncoming traffic, ensure they are visible to other road users especially when walking in the early morning and late evening. They are also being advised to always assume that they will encounter traffic on the road, regardless of the current restrictions on travel.

Meanwhile, drivers of agricultural vehicles are being reminded that they are subject to all road traffic legislation. They are required to carry the appropriate licence. Farm vehicles are required to be taxed, insured and must be roadworthy, with fully operational lights front and rear.