Whether on city streets, county roads, or highways and interstate freeways, remember to take extra care when driving near snowplows. Most people are shocked to hear that every year there are numerous traffic accidents and collisions that involve snowplows. With snowplows being rather large and usually accompanied by flashing lights it is hard to imagine people hitting them regularly. Here are some pointers on driving safely around snowplows.
Don't crowd the snowplow. Snowplows are often wider than people think, either the truck itself or sometimes there is what is called a wing-plow that comes down from the side of the truck and sticks out. It is not unusual for the plow blade(s) of a snowplow to extend past the center and fog lines of a roadway. Even on multiple lane roads like freeways don't assume that the entire plow is safely in its own lane.
Snow Plow
Give snowplows plenty of room. Because of the different routes that snowplows clear, they make frequent turns at what may be unexpected times. Snowplows also enter and exit the roadway often as they clear on and off ramps, shoulders, and other areas that are adjacent to the main road.
Beware of clouds of snow. When plowing, snowplows can kick up a cloud of snow that can reduce visibility greatly, usually faster than you have time to react. Never drive into a snow cloud; it could be concealing a snowplow.
Be aware of a snowplow driver's field of vision. A snowplow driver's vision is restricted by many things, mainly by the plow itself. Just because you can plainly see the snowplow, don't assume that the snowplow driver can plainly see you.
Oftentimes, the safest place on a roadway is following a snowplow - but be careful and give them plenty of room.
Travel Safely Around Snow Plows
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