Police have provided the following safety tips to drivers regarding snow plows.
Be patient and keep a safe distance behind working plows; they travel slowly because they are removing snow, spreading salt or sand, and applying liquid anti-ice to roadways.
Never pass a plow. They are wider than average, with large blades that extend a metre or more ahead and into the neighbouring lane.
Don’t drive beside plows, which sometimes shift sideways when plowing packed snow or drifts.
Move aside. Plows often work along the centre line of a roadway to remove snow. If approaching from the opposite direction, shift right if conditions allow, ensuring there is enough space for the plow to pass by safely.
Be aware of reduced visibility. Even at reduced plowing speeds, a light powdery snow forms a cloud in the wake of a snow plow that severely restricts a driver’s visibility, making passing extremely dangerous.
Do not pass between snow plows in tandem. On multi-lane roads, snow plows often work in tandem. Stay well back of such groups.
“It is important for all motorists to allow plow operators the room to work to avoid a potentially deadly collision,” police state.
“Be patient, slow down and … always adjust your speed to the existing conditions.”
