Share the Road Campaign – Slow Moving Vehicles and Farm Equipment on Peterborough County Roads

Peterborough County, ON

It’s harvest season in Peterborough County which means slow-moving vehicles and farm equipment will be on our roadways!

Peterborough County, in partnership with Peterborough County Federation of Agriculture, and the Ontario Provincial Police – Peterborough County Detachment, has launched the third annual Share the Road campaign.  Taking place from October 1 to November 1, the campaign aims to raise awareness about the presence of slow- moving vehicles and farm equipment on rural roads during the harvest season. To support this initiative, the Peterborough County OPP will provide heightened awareness in farming areas across Peterborough County to help ensure the safety of all road users.

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

• From October until December, farm and slow-moving vehicles will be on the roadways.
• Don’t expect the vehicle to pull over on the shoulder – as this could be dangerous for a large piece of equipment.
• Make sure the path is clear and the driver of the slow-moving vehicle sees you before you pass. 
• Impatient drivers who attempt to pass in an unsafe manner risk causing serious collisions and/or hefty penalties – the fine for Careless Driving is $490 and 6 demerit points.
• Do not drive in the blind spots of the slow-moving vehicle and keep far enough back for the driver to see you.

Quotes

“As we enter harvest season, roads in Peterborough County will be busy with farm vehicles. Our local farmers are working hard to bring in the harvest, which is vital to feed our communities. This fall, please be patient and show respect for these slow- moving vehicles. By giving them extra space and planning your travels accordingly, you're helping to ensure a safe and successful harvest. Thank you for your support of our local farming community and for sharing the road safely.”

Bonnie Clark, Warden Peterborough County

"The Ontario Provincial Police (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. 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. By working together, we can ensure a safe and productive harvest season for all. Stay safe and share the road!

Staff Sergeant, Angie Kerr, Ontario Provincial Police Peterborough County Detachment

For more information, please contact: Tracie Bertrand
General Manager, Tourism and Communications
tbertrand@ptbocounty.ca
705-743-0380 ext. 2502