In a chilling close call, Chris Unrau from the Rural Municipality (RM) of Stanley is sounding the alarm on the perils of rural driving during harvest season. His story is a stark reminder for all to prioritize safety on the roads.

A Warning Ignored

As a seasoned farmer, Unrau understands the increased activity in rural areas during harvest time and frequently advises his family and staff to remain vigilant. Yet last Thursday, he found himself caught in a situation he warns others about.

The Mistake

Driving behind a fully loaded grain truck on a dusty country road, Unrau felt the familiar pangs of dry air and limited visibility. He eased off the accelerator, going only 30-40 km/h, but soon got enveloped in a cloud of dust. Each time he emerged, he lost sight of the truck.

Unaware that the grain truck had stopped at a corn corner, Unrau drove directly into its rear. The aftermath was remarkable: "It was like crumpling a ball of tin foil off a hot potato," he recalled, witnessing the destruction his vehicle suffered while the grain truck remained virtually unscathed.

A Close Call

Miraculously, the airbags did not deploy because his vehicle slid beneath the truck, showcasing just how fortunate he truly was. However, it wasn't until moments after the crash that something surprising happened.

A Family Alert

Thanks to a family safety app, Life 360, Unrau's family received notification about the accident within minutes. Pressing the 'I’m okay' button was a relief for him, highlighting the technological tools available for safety.

Reflections on Safety

As Unrau reflects on that harrowing day, his primary concern remains the safety of his employees who navigate rural roads. Vehicle accidents are his greatest fear, especially in these busy harvest months.

A Community Call to Action

Unrau is determined to help others learn from his mistake, reminding everyone of the inherent risks near farm equipment. During the crucial harvest period, he emphasizes the importance of slowing down and being cautious.

"Harvest is the lifeblood of our community," he states, urging drivers to support local farmers by ensuring their work can continue unhindered.

Police Advice

Pembina Valley RCMP Sgt. Darcy Thiessen echoes Unrau’s concerns, warning that poor visibility at uncontrolled intersections can lead to serious accidents. He recommends slowing down or stopping at these intersections and making eye contact with oncoming drivers to ensure safety.

In these critical weeks, Unrau’s message couldn't be more timely: let’s prioritize safety and support our agricultural community.