Snowplow Safety On The Roads Will Keep You And Others Safe In Snowy Conditions

Remember, they are only doing their job! You can do some things to help them and be safe on the roads. When you follow too close to the snowplow you are endangering yourself and the driver, as well as other motorists. Here's a few things to help you stay safe when driving in winter weather.

Before you leave, check the road conditions at www.511mn.org. This way you can see if traffic is heavy or if the road is hard to drive on. Usually snow plows are on those roads and you may be stuck behind one or in the wake of the snow cloud it creates.

The Northeastern Minnesota Department of Transportation asks for drivers to use caution and safety when encountering snowplows this season.  Several dangerous encounters between snowplows and motor vehicles have already been reported.

MnDOT reminds drivers that snow plows can be twice as wide as a semi-truck, and they have plows that extend 12 to 15 feet out in front of the truck and have side "wing" plows that extend 8 to 10 feet from the side.

Also, from the MnDot website here are some things to remember:

• Be patient, and remember snowplows are working to improve road conditions for your trip.
• Stay back at least five car lengths, and preferably 10, behind the plow, far from the snow cloud.
• Stay alert for snowplows that turn or exit frequently and often with little warning.
• They also may travel over centerlines or partially in traffic to further improve road conditions.
• Slow down to a safe speed for current conditions. Snowplows typically move at slower speeds.