The NHVR and LBRCA have joined forces for National Farm Safety Week to remind drivers to show care when sharing the road with agricultural vehicles
The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) and Livestock, Bulk and Rural Carriers Association (LBRCA) is encouraging all road users to share the road with agricultural vehicles and machinery this National Farm Safety Week, which runs from July 18 to 24.
The message targets a reduction of regional road crash fatalities in Australia, as the risk of a person being killed on a remote road is 11 times greater than in a major city.
NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway says the NSW Government is committed to reducing the risk of deaths and serious injuries on the state’s roads, with a focus on rural and regional areas.
“Country people make up around a third of NSW’s population but over the past five years deaths on country roads made up 67 per cent of our road toll,” the minister says.
“This National Farm Safety Week, I encourage everyone to practice patience when you encounter a slow-moving agricultural vehicle by reducing your speed, looking out for approaching traffic and only overtaking when you have a clear stretch of road.”
NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto advises road users to watch out for the signs that can help everyone remain safe on our roads.
“Please don’t ignore the warning signs you’re receiving from your body, vehicle or the road,” Petroccitto says.
“Plenty of rest and regular vehicle maintenance can prevent a tragedy from occurring.
“Slow down when driving near a tractor with a flashing amber light and be ready to pull over safely if an agricultural vehicle displaying an ‘oversize’ sign approaches from the opposite direction.”
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LBRCA president and Agrigrowers Logistics director Wade Lewis says farmers can support National Farm Safety Week by having regular conversations with their peers about vehicle safety.
“If agricultural vehicles and machinery aren’t used regularly, minor wear and tear can become a much larger problem,” Lewis says.
“Educate staff and contractors to proactively identify, report and be accountable for safe vehicles and equipment, to help everyone be safe on Australia’s roads.
For more information for primary producers operating heavy vehicles visit www.nhvr.gov.au/primaryproducers