The winter months can be especially dangerous with ice and snow covering the roads. Most areas will send the snow plows out in order to help keep the roads clear for motorists. Often, drivers will find themselves having to coexist with the snow plows as they're traveling along. While the plows are meant to help, they can also pose a risk to drivers if they're not careful. Here are a few tips to help you stay safe this winter and avoid accidents involving snow plows.
Be Ready
Before you even hit the road in winter, make sure all of your car's fluid levels are good, particularly your antifreeze. Clear off the front and back windshields, and make sure your headlights are also clear. Check the tread on your tires to ensure that they are in good working condition so you can be safe on the slipper surfaces of winter roads. When your vehicle is better prepared for winter weather, it reduces the risk of a problem.
Snow Plow Facts
Some snow plow crews will assemble several together side by side in order to clear a large swath of road at once. Be aware that these teams could temporarily block lanes as they work. When it comes to driving near snow plows, you should follow these safety tips:
- Always remain at least four car lengths behind a snow plow as it is driving. When the snow is being moved, it can create a huge cloud behind the plow that can blow back into your line of vision. By staying further back, you can see a bit better and avoid hitting the snow plow from behind.
- If there is a salt brine truck on the road, it should have a sign on it letting drivers know that there is liquid salt inside, and for motorists to stay back. The brine can spray across as many as three lanes of highway, so it's recommended you do not drive near them as they work.
- Keep in mind that often, snow plow drivers cannot see you, even if you can see them. This means it's always pertinent to either wait until they've completed the roads you plan to drive on, or give them plenty of space.
- Never try to pass a snow plow on the road. Most of the snow they are clearing will go off to the side, and as you attempt to pass, that snow can blind you, causing a serious accident.
- As long as you remember to pace yourself, keep your distance, and ensure that your car is prepared for the colder weather, you should be able to safely get where you need to be when the winter weather hits.
For professional help with keeping a snow plow in good condition, contact a company such as Koenig Body & Equipment Inc.
