James Herrick: Put away your mobile in the cab

For a while now I have noticed a worrying trend among farmers.

It seems to have become more prevalent as the years go by and it’s a trend that, sadly, I don’t see coming to an end any time soon. Any guesses? No? Well I’ll tell you. Using your mobile phone while on the road.

I have no problem with someone using their phone in the field, when on their own and not endangering others.

See also: James Herrick – the key to a successful farming marriage

About the author

James Herrick

James Herrick is based on his family’s suckler beef and arable farm in Leicestershire. A passionate conservationist, he’s keen on using technology to maximise agriculture’s profitability and lessen its impact on the environment. Away from the farm he likes to compete in triathlons and endurance races.

Read more articles by James Herrick

You could even say that it’s important in this day and age to have your phone to hand when operating the countless pieces of dangerous equipment that we have on farms. However, there is never an excuse for using it on the road.

I know this opinion won’t be popular, but I have a confession to make: I’m a keen cyclist and love nothing more than zipping about the countryside on two wheels.

Unfortunately, this is where I pass many of my fellow farmers with the phone firmly pressed to their ear or in their hand scrolling through social media, all while operating machines that often take up more than one carriageway.

There have been many occasions, notably one in North Norfolk, when I have had to veer onto a grass verge in order to evade the oncoming front wheel of a tractor as the driver sat scrolling. 

Terrifyingly, I swear to this day that he never even realised I was there.

Is it even worth it? The penalty for being on your phone is six points. Get 12 points and you lose your licence.

There aren’t many farmers in the UK who don’t rely on the road network, so a moment of stupidity could lead to you losing your job, your business or, God forbid, worse.

So please think twice next time you are tempted to pick up your phone. Most tractors have hands-free and, believe it or not, you can wait until the next field before you check out what your neighbour is doing on TikTok.

After all, you are sat in a big glass box so it’s not as though people can’t see you!