Tractor Backs Up Over Farmer

A farmer was crushed by his own tractor when another person was attempting to operate it.

The victim was adjusting the spreader which was being towed behind the tractor. Another person tried to put the tractor into neutral but failed, engaging the reverse gear instead. The inexperienced tractor operator then failed to operate the clutch properly and his foot slipped off the pedal. The victim was hit and crushed as the tractor backed up.

The driver of the tractor evaded police for a couple of days, so it could not be determined if he had been drinking. However, a witness said the victim himself had been drinking beer prior to the incident.

Alcohol and machinery are a fatal mixture. Never attempt to operate equipment under the influence of alcohol or drugs. And never attempt to operate equipment unless you are trained and qualified to do so. Your co-workers must be trained and able to work safely too — your life may depend on it.