Drive with caution this harvest season

All motorists play vital roles in ensuring safety on PEI’s roads, especially during the busy harvest season.

Here are some basic tips for maintaining safe driving practices:

For motorists:

• Be aware: Fall is a busy time on PEI roads during harvest season. Expect farm equipment on Island roadways from early morning to late at night.
• Be patient: Farm equipment often moves slower than regular traffic. Take your time when driving near these vehicles.
• Slow down: Reducing speed can give you more time to react and improve safety for everyone.
• Maintain distance: Keep a safe distance when following or passing farm equipment.
• Watch for mud: Be cautious of slippery road conditions caused by mud from farming vehicles.
• Watch this video: Share the road with farm vehicles (youtube.com)

For the farming community:

• Increase visibility of vehicles and equipment:
  • Check lights to ensure they’re working properly.
  • Use reflective tape.
  • Mark the edges of the vehicle so motorists can gauge safe passing distances.
  • Use pilot vehicles with proper lighting.
• Use slow-moving vehicle signs: Display these signs prominently to alert drivers that you’re moving at a slower pace.
• Secure loads: Cover loose products like grain and strap down hay bales and tote boxes to prevent them from falling off.
• Review Prince Edward Island Federation of Agriculture’s best practices guide: Best Practices for operating farm equipment

If you see something that could cause immediate harm, contacting 9-1-1 is crucial. For less urgent situations, please contact to the local police non-emergency number. Always prioritize safety and report incidents asap.

Islanders can expect to hear more about road safety as the harvest season continues.
               
Media contact:
Stacey Miller
Transportation and Infrastructure
samiller@gov.pe.ca