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Monday, November 17, 2008, 08:00
The last thing I need, for example, is to slide off my motorcycle on a wet, muddy road, then have to pay out for its repair, possibly be injured and take time off work, or perhaps even be killed.
I use the example of a motorcycle because they are the most vulnerable vehicles to slippery roads.
The most obvious time a slippery surface is likely to be a problem is when stopping a vehicle or changing direction, assuming mud is on a straight section of carriageway. You should be able to anticipate and drive accordingly (less so at night); however, on or after a bend is a different story – no visual warning, and the least favourable circumstance to take action.
It may be that your side of the road is unaffected, but a vehicle out of control collides with you. It could be a three- tonne van that wipes out your whole family, or how would you feel if you were driving along and you kill a motorcyclist who has fallen victim to the slippery road and slid into your path?
It's not really a lot to ask for farmers to take action about leaving mud on the road given the potential consequences.
If it is not practical to clear the road of mud, then use signs to warn motorists. Leave them out until the mud has gone, not just until you have finished work.
Clear off the worst by the gate and the rain will do the rest – not difficult, really.
Not all farmers are so inconsiderate and it is unfair to lump them all together. However, there is absolutely no excuse for leaving mud on roads without taking any action whatsoever.
If it can be proved who left mud on the road that causes an accident, the culprit is wide open to be sued; with all the "no win, no fee" adverts, I would think it extremely likely that you will be, which will increase your insurance premiums, etc.
All this for lack of a sign and 10 minutes with a shovel?
J Lee-Smith Address supplied
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