What to do if You Encounter a Snowplow

- First published in January 2012 Fleet Safety Newsletter

With winter driving comes the need for road maintenance and with that, sharing the road with snow removal equipment. To do the job right, snowplows often travel slower than regular traffic. Sight lines and visibility near a working snowplow are significantly reduced by blowing snow, which make passing dangerous.

Here are some tips to help keep you safe when interacting with snowplows:

• Remain a safe distance back from maintenance equipment.
• Slow down and keep to the right. Snowplows in residential areas move at much slower speeds than other vehicles.
• In rural areas, never pass on the right-hand side on undivided highways. Snow and debris exit the plow on the right and pose a dangerous hazard. Passing on the right could result in a severe, even fatal collision.
• Keep lots of space. Snow removal operators frequently stop to clean off their lights.
• Be patient and never pass a snowplow unless the snowplow operator is pulling over to let you pass.
• Be extra cautious when approaching a snowplow from behind, as plows may cause snow clouds that reduce visibility.
• Watch for the flashing amber lights on the back of these vehicles. These lights send a very intense, narrow band of light behind the snowplow that increases its visibility.