'Never pass a plow truck on a slippery road': Sheriff's office in Wisconsin reminds motorists
Nov 20, 2024
(WFRV) - With snow approaching Wisconsin overnight, and the likely chance of much more in the coming months, officials are reminding motorists to be cautious, especially when roads are slippery.
According to the Dodge County Sheriff's Highway Department, snow plow operators are experiencing more accidents and close calls.
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Plow truck operators are tasked with plowing and salting the roads all night and day during winter weather, and especially when the roads are snowed out and slippery. At times, visibility is near or at zero with temperatures in the negatives.
While those are concerns beyond their control, many common worries plow operators face can be addressed, and it requires the help of motorists.
Drivers are asked to slow down when it is slippery and to not follow closely behind a plow truck, as the operator may not be able to see them in the mirror.
Motorists are told to stay back at least 200 feet and dim the brights/high-beam headlights when approaching or following a truck.
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Passing plow trucks in slippery conditions is also highly discouraged unless a truck is shoulder/ditch winging while the pavement is dry. Always clear the entire windshield as well, and do not drive while distracted.
The coverage hours during storms vary by the road as well, but additional travel time should be allocated if driving is required.