Drivers play a crucial role in ensuring safe travel during severe winter weather. Snowplows are essential for keeping roads clear and drivable during winter storms, but sharing the road with them presents unique challenges. Navigating around snowplows requires extra caution to promote safety and minimize the risk of accidents.
Snowplow operators face hazardous conditions with limited visibility, icy roads, and the added pressure of maintaining road safety in difficult weather. Their work is vital, and being mindful of their presence on the road can help prevent collisions. By understanding the challenges they face, drivers can adjust their behavior accordingly. In this article, we’ll provide valuable tips for driving near snowplows, including guidelines for passing, maintaining safe distances, and managing difficult winter road conditions.
Can you pass a snowplow on the road safely?
Passing a snowplow can be dangerous and should be avoided whenever possible. Snowplows operate in the center or right lanes, throwing snow, slush, and debris that can severely limit visibility. Attempting to pass in these conditions significantly escalates the risk of losing control of your vehicle.
If passing is essential, only do so when the snowplow is not clearing the road. Check for signs prohibiting passing and ensure you have plenty of room before proceeding cautiously. Never pass on curves, hills, or areas with poor visibility, as these conditions make it harder for you and the plow operator to see one another.
How to Stay Safe When Driving Near Snowplows
Driving near snowplows requires heightened awareness and caution. Here are some tips to keep yourself and those around you safe:
Maintain a Safe Following Distance: Keep at least 200 feet between your vehicle and a snowplow. This space provides enough time to react if the plow stops suddenly. Keeping back allows you to monitor road issues caused by flying snow and debris.
Be Aware of Plow Drivers' Blind Spots: Snowplows have large blind spots, especially on their sides and rear. To stay visible, avoid proximity unless passing is unavoidable.
Slow Down and Adjust for Conditions: Snowplows work on icy or slushy roads, so reduce your speed to account for these conditions. Speeding near a plow increases the likelihood of hitting patches of ice or losing control.
Tips for Keeping Your Parked Car Safe from Snowplows
Snowplows are vital for clearing roads but can pose risks to parked vehicles. Use the following precautions to minimize the chances of damage:
Park Off the Road: When possible, park your car in a driveway or away from the road. Cars parked too close to the curb are more likely to be hit by plow blades or snowbanks.
Park a Safe Distance from the Curb: If parking on the street is unavoidable, leave a generous gap between your car and the curb to give snowplow operators more room to maneuver.
Use Snow Markers: Mark your parking area with snow stakes or reflective posts to make it more visible to snowplow operators during heavy storms.
Clear Snow from Around Your Vehicle: Before the plows arrive, remove snow from the surrounding area to prevent snowbanks from building around your vehicle.
Being aware of snowplows and practicing safe parking can keep your vehicle safe and minimize the risk of damage during winter weather.
Practice Road Safety This Winter With SelectQuote
Practicing snowplow safety is key to avoiding accidents and protecting yourself during winter driving. Keeping a safe distance from snowplows, driving cautiously in unfavorable weather, and preventing risky actions like passing on the right can help ensure a safer journey. Snowplows work hard to make roads safer, so give them the space to do their job effectively.
In addition to safe driving practices, having reliable car insurance coverage is essential for winter road safety. That’s where we come in. With access to the nation’s most trusted insurance providers, our team of licensed insurance agents can help you find the coverage you need at a price that’s right for you.
