Winter weather in Montana can create uncertain driving conditions. Each year, approximately 640 snowplow drivers work to keep the state highways passable, covering almost 50,000 plowed miles. In addition, many more county and city drivers work to remove snow from roadways. Knowing important safety information and general etiquette allows snowplow drivers to complete their work and stay safe.

  1. Give snowplows space. Slow down when approaching a snowplow traveling in the same lane. Snowplows travel slowly, and drivers can underestimate the time and space needed to slow down and avoid a collision. If meeting a snowplow traveling in the opposite direction, do not drift toward the center line to ensure the snowplow has enough room to pass.

  2. Use extreme caution when passing snowplows. Only pass if it is legal to do so, a clear lane is visible, and there is no “snow cloud.” A snow cloud is the airborne snow that surrounds a snowplow as snow is being removed from the road. The snow cloud is dangerous for drivers to enter because visibility is so poor. Snowplows often work together or in tandem to remove snow from roads to avoid snow accumulation. Drivers trying to pass without clear visibility may encounter the front plow and cause unsafe driving conditions or cause a collision. Drive with lights on in snowy conditions to increase visibility.

  3. Do not pass snowplows on the right side. That is the side they move snow toward. Snowplows may also use a wing plow, which is an extension of the front plow, which drivers may not be able to see.

  4. Allow extra travel time, slow down, and allow snowplow drivers to do their work. If conditions are safe and there is an opportunity, snowplow operators will try to pull over and allow traffic to pass.

Orange snowplow on a snow covered road, pushing snow to the side with a large black bucket attachment.

Photo: Adobe Stock

 

Mandie Reed is the MSU Extension Agent in Wheatland County.