Gardaí remind tractor drivers to ‘keep an eye in the mirror’

An Garda Síochána has issued a timely safety message to all road users.

It has urged the public to be mindful of the increased presence of agricultural machinery on roads.

Message for road users 

In a statement on social media, a spokesperson for Garda Síochána Wicklow, said:

“Given the time of year and the season that is upon us, a timely reminder to drivers, particularly in rural areas, to be aware of harvesting that might be going on and the presence of large machinery moving on small, rural roads.”

“A little reminder too to farmers and contractors to keep an eye in the mirror and if traffic builds up behind them, to try and find a safe location to pull in and allow safe overtaking.”

Road traffic legislation for agricultural vehicles

Gardaí in Meath issued a similar message in recent weeks, as it urged all road users to “expect the unexpected”.

It also reminded drivers of agricultural machinery to comply with relevant road traffic legislation.

In a post on social media on Tuesday, August 3^rd, 2021, a spokesperson for Meath Crime Prevention said:

“Drivers of agricultural vehicles, including quads, are not exempt from road traffic legislation and are reminded that those operating them must hold and carry the appropriate licence for that vehicle whilst driving on public roads. Helmets should also be worn at all times when operating quads.”

Agricultural vehicles are required to be taxed, insured and must be roadworthy, and have fully operational lights both in the front and rear.

If detected on public roads, they are also liable to seizure in the same way that a car/van is liable to seizure for:

• No driving licence;
• Insurance;
• Tax expired for two months or more;
• No test/NCT;
• Unaccompanied drivers etc.

Gardaí issued safety advice for tractor drivers and cyclists.

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