Governor Evers honors snowplow drivers with statewide appreciation day, reminds drivers to pay attention to roads this winter
Dec 02, 2024
(WFRV) - Governor Tony Ever has declared Monday, December 2 as Snowplow Driver Appreciation Day in Wisconsin.
According to a press release from WisDOT, this declaration reminds motorists to slow down and allow snowplow drivers to do their jobs safely.
The partnership with the Wisconsin County Highway Association (WCHA) and the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) urges drivers to pay attention to Wisconsin roads this winter.
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Every winter, Wisconsin’s snowplow drivers show up no matter the conditions to make sure the roads are safe for you. We are grateful for their commitment to keeping our roads clear, but we need to do our part to keep them safe. Please, focus on the road ahead at all times; be patient and give extra space to snowplows; and, when possible, avoid traveling during major winter storms.
WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman
The release makes note that for over a century, Wisconsin has fostered a unique collaboration with the highway departments of all 72 counties. In winter, county highway crews ensure the safety of interstates, U.S. routes, and state highways through snow plowing, salting, and liquid brine application.
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Throughout the year, WisDOT partners with these counties to develop best practices and explore innovative tools that enhance safety and efficiency.
Wisconsin permits county and municipal maintenance vehicles to use flashing green warning lights alongside red or amber lights.
These green lights are designed to improve safety, increase driver awareness, and enhance the visibility of maintenance vehicles.
The press release provides reminders for Snowplow Day:
Before traveling, visit 511wi.gov to check road conditions, live video from traffic cameras, and possible incidents. Download the 511 Wisconsin mobile app to “know before you go.”
Buckle up, phone down. Every trip, every time.
Watch the road ahead and leave room to brake, especially in slick conditions.
Most traffic crashes in winter are caused by drivers going too fast for the conditions -- Posted speed limits apply when travel conditions are ideal. Slow down when roads are slick or visibility is reduced.
Stay at least 200 feet behind a working snowplow -- Make sure that you can see the plow’s mirrors to ensure the driver can see you.
If you must pass a snowplow, be careful. Snowplows often create a cloud of snow that can obscure vision. Remember that road conditions in front of the plow are likely worse.
Don’t be over-confident if you operate a four-wheel or all-wheel-drive vehicle -- They still require a considerable distance to stop on slick roads.
During major winter storms, postpone or cancel your trip -- Stranded motorists and vehicles become hazards that interfere with snow removal efforts.
Motorists can thank Wisconsin snowplow drivers by staying safe on the roads this winter.