What Happened?
A side-by-side driven by a farm worker collided head-on with a ute driven by a member of the public when turning out of a gateway onto a road. It was in an 80 km/h speed zone. The ute driver managed to brake before impact, which reduced the impact of the collision. Both vehicles were significantly damaged, and the side-by-side was a total loss. The side-by-side driver suffered bruising from the seatbelt, but was fortunate to not have further injuries. Sun strike and overgrown vegetation may have been contributing factors as they limited the driver's visibility of oncoming traffic.
Key Lessons
- Stay alert, fully stop and carefully look both ways before entering onto or crossing a road, even the ones you drive everyday.
- Vegetation around crossings and intersections needs to be kept trimmed back or removed so there is a clear view of oncoming traffic.
- Install signage at road crossings to remind drivers to stop and look.
- Whenever you are operating a vehicle make sure you are wearing a seatbelt and the required PPE - this includes seatbelts, helmets, hi-viz clothing, and sunglasses when needed.
- Make sure anyone using a farm vehicle is competent, has completed driver training, and vehicles are in good working and serviced condition.
- Limit or remove any distractions that could take your focus away from driving. This includes cellphones, background music, headphones, or performing other tasks.
- Before you start, check that you are up to the task. Are you tired or distracted? Is there anything that will impact your driving? Talk to your team or manager if you are unsure, or have concerns.
