Crashes involving agricultural vehicles over 50 per cent more likely in summer, according to latest data
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ACCIDENTS involving agricultural vehicles are over 50 per cent more likely during the summer, according to the latest data.
It shows that the chances of collisions are 52 per cent higher between May and September – the busiest months for farmers harvesting silage, hay and arable crops. As a result, drivers are being urged to take extra care and to respect rural roads to avoid unnecessary danger.
Claims data from insurance company NFU Mutual shows that on average, there were 423 collisions a month during the silage cutting, hay making, and harvesting season, compared to 249 between October and April.
As well as an increase in agricultural traffic, the summer months coincide with the school holidays and a greater amount of leisure traffic, with road users not necessarily used to rural roads, which can further increase the risk of accidents, says the insurer.
Jade Devlin, rural road safety specialist at NFU Mutual, said: "Agricultural vehicles are generally large, wide and slow, which can tempt road users to overtake, but it’s vital that you remain patient and only overtake when it’s safe to do so – when you can see a clear road ahead, there are no field openings, and you have space to pass.
"Farmers and contractors cannot drive too quickly, but they will generally either be going a short distance to an adjacent field or will – and should – pull over to allow built-up traffic to pass. Motorists and cyclists should be patient, give agricultural vehicles room to turn and not drive too closely to them, which can be dangerous and can obstruct your view before overtaking.
Mr Devlin added: "It’s important to remember that rural roads are vital arteries for our agricultural industry, allowing farmers to bring in the harvest which helps feed the population, as well as valued spaces which allow us to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
"Mutual respect from those who use rural roads for work and for pleasure will ultimately help keep our motorists, cyclists, horse riders and walkers safe this harvest season."
