Snow Driving Tips

Winter Weather Driving Tips

Sharing the road with plows 

Our plow trucks are large, slow moving vehicles which are not easy to stop, especially when their plow is down. Please remember to follow these rules when driving near our trucks:

• Don't pass a snow plow unless absolutely necessary.
• Don't assume the snow plow operator can see you. Every truck has blind spots which reduce side and rear visibility
• Allow plenty of stopping distance;don't follow too closely. This also reduces the chance of loose material hitting your vehicle.
• Keep your headlights on low beam.
• Slow Down!

Driving tips

When emergency personnel give the word that streets are again passable, you still need to drive cautiously for the conditions of the roads will not be clean, dry pavement.

• Have your vehicle winterized and store blankets and other supplies in your vehicle in case you should become stranded.
• Clear all snow and ice from mirrors, windows, headlights, and taillights before leaving.
• Reduce your speed and leave early, planning your route to avoid steep upgrades and lightly-traveled roads.
• Drive with your headlights on low-beam
• Use caution on bridges and overpasses, as they freeze more quickly.
• Watch for black ice, which is a thin transparent layer of ice on roadways that is extremely slippery and hard to spot.
• For more tips visit MODOT's Winter Driving Tips site