Published: July 2026 | Version: 1.0 | Last updated: July 2026
Applies to: Municipalities with agricultural traffic on local roads.
Purpose: This bulletin outlines risk management considerations to help municipalities support public safety, protect infrastructure, and reduce the risk of collisions during harvest season.
Harvest Traffic and Public Safety
Municipalities play an important role in promoting safety during harvest season, when increased movement of large agricultural equipment on local roads can create challenges for both farmers and motorists. By taking a proactive approach, municipalities can help reduce the risk of collisions, protect infrastructure, and improve public awareness.
The following risk management considerations can help municipalities prepare for increased agricultural traffic and address harvest-related risks on local roads.
Promote public awareness
- Launch seasonal safety campaigns reminding motorists to share the road with slow-moving farm equipment
- Use municipal websites, social media channels, newsletters, and local media to communicate harvest-related road safety messages
- Educate drivers on safe passing distances, reduced speeds, and the importance of patience when encountering agricultural equipment
Maintain safe road infrastructure
- Ensure road signs, pavement markings, and traffic control devices are visible and in good condition
- Maintain road shoulders, intersections, and sightlines to improve visibility for operators and motorists
- Address potholes, soft shoulders, and drainage issues that could affect the movement of large equipment
Identify and manage high-risk areas
- Review collision data and local feedback to identify roads or intersections with increased harvest traffic
- Consider temporary warning signage in areas with frequent equipment movement
- Assess bridges, culverts, and road weight restrictions to ensure they can safely accommodate agricultural equipment
Collaborate with the agricultural communities
- Engage local producers, agricultural associations, and rural residents to discuss seasonal concerns
- Encourage farmers to notify the municipality of significant equipment movements or temporary roadway hazards
- Foster partnerships that promote safe operating practices and roadway awareness
Support safe traffic management
- Develop procedures for managing oversized equipment movements when necessary
- Coordinate with emergency services to ensure access routes remain available during peak harvest activities
- Consider temporary traffic control measures in areas experiencing high volumes of agricultural traffic
Encourage visibility and safe equipment operation
- Promote the use of slow-moving vehicle signs, flashing amber lights, reflective markings, and escort vehicles where appropriate
- Encourage operators to conduct regular equipment inspections and maintain adequate insurance coverage
- Share best practices for operator training and fatigue management
Review municipal policies and emergency preparedness
- Ensure road use bylaws, permits, and operational procedures reflect current agricultural traffic conditions
- Establish response plans for collisions, spills, road obstructions, or infrastructure damage involving farm equipment
- Monitor and review incidents to identify opportunities for improvement
Summary
Municipalities can help support a safe and successful harvest season by raising public awareness, maintaining safe roadways, working with the agricultural community, and implementing measures that reduce risks to motorists, farm equipment operators, and municipal infrastructure.
Questions?
For more information or assistance with reviewing and mitigating harvest-related risks in your municipality, contact your Risk Advisor or the Risk Team at risk@rmainsurance.com.
*This bulletin is provided by RMA Insurance for general information only. It is based on our understanding of current law and practice as of the date of publication and does not constitute legal, engineering, or professional advice, or an interpretation of any insurance policy. Coverage is governed solely by the terms of your policy. Municipalities remain responsible for complying with their legal obligations, and any use of this information is at the reader’s discretion. For advice on your specific situation, contact your RMA Risk Advisor or legal counsel.