Livestock transporters are using National Farm Safety week to urge all road users to take additional care when travelling on regional roads.

The risk of a person being killed on a remote road is 11 times greater than in a major city, a statement by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) and Livestock, Bulk and Rural Carriers Association (LBRCA) released for National Farm Safety Week (18-24 July 2022) states.

New South Wales minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said country people make up around a third of the State’s population but over the past five years deaths on country roads made up 67 per cent of the NSW road toll.

“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,” he said.

NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto said 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,” Mr Petroccitto said.

“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.”

LBRCA President and Agrigrowers Logistics Director Wade Lewis said 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,” Mr Lewis said.

“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.

Source: NHVR, LBRCA. For more information for primary producers operating heavy vehicles visit www.nhvr.gov.au/primaryproducers