Snow Plows On The Roads

Saturday, 19 January 2019 07:06

Make sure to give the snow plow operators plenty of space today.

OXFORD COUNTY - Oxford County Public Works is reminding everyone to slow down and give the snow plow operators plenty of space to work.

Snow plows have to travel below the speed limit to do their job effectively. Crowding, tailgating or passing a snow plow can be very dangerous. A fully loaded plow truck cannot manoeuvre easily or stop quickly and it has many blind spots. Don't assume a snow plow operator can see you, especially if you are driving too close and visibility is poor, which is often the case.

Passing a snow plow is not a good idea either, especially when the roads are really bad. Although they move slowly, the road behind an active plow is always safer than the road ahead. A good rule of thumb is to allow 10 car lengths between you and the plow since plowing creates a cloud of snow, which can decrease visibility and simulate whiteout conditions.

Other winter driving safety tips include:

- Turn on your headlights and tail lights, even during the day.
- Use winter-rated snow tires with the mountain-snowflake symbol.
- Pull as far over to the right as is safe when you see a snowplow approaching from the opposite direction.
- Adjust your speed for road conditions and schedule extra time for winter travel.
- Assume that bridges are slippery since they freeze more quickly than road surfaces.
- Keep your fuel tank at least half full to help reduce moisture in the fuel system and add weight to the vehicle.
- Keep a winter survival kit in your vehicle, including a blanket, extra warm clothing, a flashlight, shovel, non-perishable food, and water.

Manager of Transpiration and Waste for Oxford County Frank Gross says if you encounter a snow plow, slow down, be patient and stay back. Snow plow operators are working hard so everyone can travel safely.

“Plow operators often encounter drivers that are impatient or pass them at high speeds. They have an important job to do, often working long hours in poor driving conditions. If you're driving behind a snow plow, stay back, be patient and don't try to pass. Roads are plowed in sections, so you usually won't be stuck behind a plow for more than 20-30 minutes.”