Gardaí in Kilkenny say they will be taking a zero-tolerance approach to dangerous tractor driving during the busy silage season.
Concerns are growing around young and inexperienced drivers using mobile phones while operating heavy machinery on rural roads.
Gardaí warn that anyone caught texting while driving tractors carrying heavy loads could face prosecution for dangerous driving, rather than just a fixed penalty notice, with the possibility of disqualification.
Inspector Paul Donohoe also says vehicles need to be up to code.
“Contractors to check to make sure lights is everything because they will be working late into the night and early mornings. You should not let a tractor and trailer out unless you have all your lights. Flashing beacons on the tractors, lights on all the trailers. That goes for the driver who’s obliged, but the owner of the vehicle is also obliged to have those tires have to be correct number plates and indicators, most importantly is indicators have to be working on these vehicles. They’re turning left and right and in, in and out of fields and different things.” said Inspector Donohue.
