Peterborough County Launches Second 'Share the Road Campaign' For Awareness of Slow-Moving Vehicles and Farm Equipment On Roads

Peterborough County has launched the second annual Share the Road campaign to spread awareness for slow-moving vehicles and farm equipment on its roads.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough County.

This campaign is promoted during harvest season which begins in October and can last into December. It is in partnership with the Peterborough Federation of Agriculture and the Ontario Provincial Police – Peterborough County Detachment,

There will be heightened awareness by the Peterborough County OPP in farming areas across Peterborough County during the campaign which will run until the end of October.

“As the leaves change colour and the weather gets colder, you will start to see more farm vehicles on our roads across Peterborough County. As farmers prepare for their harvest, please be mindful of oversized and slow-moving vehicles on our roads,” said Bonnie Clark, Peterborough County warden. “Agriculture continues to be the lifeblood of Peterborough County and we want to ensure a safe and productive harvest for our farming community this year.”

The Ontario Federation of Agriculture and the OPP want motorists to be aware of the following:

  1. Harvest season begins in October and lasts into December – Farm and slow-moving vehicles will be on the roadways.

  2. Don’t expect the vehicle to pull over on the shoulder – as this could be dangerous for a large piece of equipment.

  3. Make sure the path is clear and the driver of the slow-moving vehicle sees you before you pass.

  4. Impatient drivers who attempt to pass in an unsafe manner risk causing serious accidents and/or hefty penalties – the fine for Careless Driving is $490 and 6 demerit points.

  5. Do not drive in the blind spots of the slow-moving vehicle and keep far enough back for the driver to see you.

“The OPP would like to remind motorists that harvest season is in full swing once again. During this time of year, you may encounter slow-moving farm vehicles on the road more frequently,” said Angie Kerr, OPP acting staff sergeant. “Both motorists and farm equipment operators share the responsibility for road safety, and we urge everyone to exercise patience and caution during these encounters. Please be alert, give farm vehicles plenty of space, and pass only when it is truly safe to do so.”

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