With harvest season fast approaching, drivers heading through Elgin County’s rural roads will need to watch for farmers tending to their fields.
The Association of Ontario Road Supervisors says drivers will see an increase in tractors and farm machinery on the road, adding that it is crucial for them to stay alert and practice safe driving habits.
AORS officials say commuters can safely share the road with farmers by:
- Watching for a slow-moving vehicle sign, a red or orange triangle, on the back of equipment that cannot legally travel faster than 40 km/h.
- Slowing down and keeping a safe distance when approaching farm machinery
- Passing only when it’s safe and with clear line of sight, avoiding passing on hills, curves, or near intersections
- Watching for debris or changing road conditions and changing speeds as necessary
According to the Ontario Federation of Agriculture, slow-moving vehicles are 3.8 to 4.8 times more likely to be involved in a fatal collision per kilometre on the road than other motor vehicles.
Written by: Kasey Egan
