Motorists have been warned to be wary of tractors and other slow-moving agricultural vehicles emerging from fields during the summer months.

The Road Safety Authority and Irish Farmers' Association issued a joint appeal for drivers to be patient and only overtake when it is safe to do so.

Farmers were also urged to ensure their vehicles are properly insured and are fit to be driven.

RSA chief Noel Brett said: "This is a very busy time of year for farmers. It's the start of the silage-cutting season and the number of tractors and trailers out using the roads will increase dramatically.

"I am asking all drivers to be on the lookout for tractors, trailers and other farm machinery exiting from fields and farmyards."