WEST Mercia Police are urging Herefordshire drivers to take extra care on rural roads as the harvest season continues.

Increased movements of agricultural vehicles at this time of year sees a rise in road collisions, many preventable.

Collisions involving agricultural vehicles often occur on rural roads with 60mph speed limits, particularly near farm entrances. The typical causes of collisions are poor overtaking manoeuvres and inappropriate speed.  

Since the start of 2019, there have been three fatal, two serious injury and nine slight injury collisions in Herefordshire involving agricultural vehicles.

A further hazard is caused by mud on the road, which can cause skidding, particularly in wet conditions.

Superintendent Gareth Morgan said: “We’d like to thank farmers for their hard work and long hours during the harvest season. 

“We all have a valuable role to play in road safety and while the majority of farmers take steps to ensure they keep the roads clear of mud and debris, not all are as diligent. 

“We would like to remind farmers and contractors of their responsibilities under the Highways Act, and we will continue to take a tough stance against anyone who we believe is being reckless and irresponsible.

“We are also asking farmers to ensure they are not driving agricultural vehicles on the roads with an obscured field of vision. In simple terms, if there is a front implement on your tractor and it obscures your vision, you could be liable for prosecution.

“General motorists are being encouraged to take extra care and patience on rural roads during the harvest season.  

“While it can be frustrating travelling behind an agricultural vehicle it’s not worth getting impatient and putting yourself and other road users at risk with dangerous manoeuvres.”

Anyone with concerns of excessive mud on the road should call Balfour Beatty Living Places on 01432 261800. Alternatively report to West Mercia Police on 101 or online at westmercia.police.uk.

A spokesman for the Environment Agency said: “We are working with land managers to reduce soil run-off in Herefordshire. 

“If you witness soil run-off entering drains, ditches or watercourses please report this to the Environment Agency’s on 0800 807060.”