Dramatic footage has emerged on social media in recent days after a tractor overturned in Co. Wexford earlier this week.
It is believed that no one was injured in the accident.
The incident occurred in Ballydesmond, in the southeast county, on Tuesday morning, August 4.
In a statement to AgriLand, a spokesperson for An Garda Síochána confirmed:
“Gardaí attended the scene of a single vehicle road traffic collision which occurred in Ballyedmond, Co. Wexford, on Tuesday, August 4, 2020, at approximately 11:30am.
“A tractor overturned. No injuries were reported,” the Garda spokesperson added.
In the video that has circulated on social media, the John Deere tractor – equipped with a front loader – can be seen travelling along the local route.
As the machine turns to the left off the road, it appears to skid before toppling over onto its side. A number of motorists can then be seen rushing over to check on the unfortunate driver.
Road safety
On the topic of road safety, motorists and tractor/agricultural machinery operators alike need to be extra vigilant when using rural roads at this busy time in the farming year, according to the Office of Emergency Planning (OEP).
Taking to social media yesterday, Thursday, August 6, the OEP said:
“At this time of year, there will be an increase in the number of agricultural vehicles using the road.
If stuck behind a tractor, be patient and don’t be tempted into any foolish or rash overtaking. Always be on the look-out for farm machinery leaving fields and farmyards.
“Farmers need to be safety-conscious too,” it was added.
“If the traffic is building up behind, keep left where safe to allow others to pass safely,” the office warned.