On average, there are nearly 41 collisions yearly in Manitoba involving agricultural equipment and passenger vehicles, according to Manitoba Public Insurance data.
“Crops are coming off the fields and large agriculture machinery will be travelling on roadways. It’s important motorists be aware and drive responsibly,” said Satvir Jatana, Vice President, Employee and Community Engagement, Manitoba Public Insurance. “Observance of road safety is key to keeping our roadways safe. Producers are on the roadways moving their machinery. Everyone is expected to share the roads responsibly and safely.”
Farm equipment is large, may take up more than one lane, and is slow moving so motorists need to use extra caution when approaching and overtaking. Producers need to do their part to ensure equipment is properly signed with lights and reflectors in use. Extra caution is also required when entering roadways and making turns with this equipment.”
Farm equipment is required to have a slow-moving vehicle emblem clearly visible to traffic approaching from behind, with red reflectors on the back as close as possible to the left and right sides. At night, farm equipment must have headlights, red tail lamps and flashing amber warning lamps.
Farm equipment has a maximum speed of 40 km/h so it’s easy for motorists to misjudge their speed of approach. Motorists can do their part by keeping a safe distance from agricultural machinery added Jatana.
“Motorists should be patient when they come upon farm equipment and only pass when safe to do so,” said Jatana. “Be particularly diligent during dusk and dawn hours when it can be difficult to see.”
