CANADA, October 4 - 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