Key facts
- Gardaí in Co. Meath have issued safety advice for the silage season.
- The advice follows an increase in agricultural vehicles using public roads.
- Motorists are urged to remain patient and avoid dangerous overtaking of tractors.
- Farmers are advised to keep left when safe to allow traffic to pass.
- Drivers of farm machinery are reminded not to use mobile phones on public roads.
- A key warning is to never let an inexperienced driver use machinery.
Gardaí in County Meath have issued safety advice to farmers and motorists concerning the current silage season, prompted by a rise in agricultural vehicles on public roads. They are urging motorists to exercise patience when encountering tractors and to refrain from dangerous overtaking maneuvers. Drivers are also advised to be vigilant for farm machinery exiting fields and yards. For farmers, the advice includes keeping to the left when safe to allow traffic to pass, and for drivers of farm machinery, a strict reminder not to use mobile phones while on public roads. Specific tips for tractor drivers include regularly washing down wheels to prevent mud and stones from being carried onto roads, being careful not to spill materials like silage or slurry, avoiding overloading trailers to maintain stability, and being aware of low bridges, overhead cables, and uneven road surfaces. Crucially, gardaí stressed the importance of never allowing an inexperienced driver to operate machinery and ensuring all equipment is properly serviced and in good working order. They also recommended considering an escort vehicle for large farming vehicles to warn other road users and ensuring adequate visibility from driving mirrors and proper functioning brakes on both tractor and trailer units. Farmers were also advised to ensure supervision on farm grounds, particularly with children or visitors present.