Snow is a constant during the Alaskan winters but may contribute to unsafe road conditions. As snow and ice builds up on the roads, snow removal becomes a priority. Snowplows are used for snow removal and make Alaskan roads safer for everyone. There are a few things to know however when sharing the roads with snowplows.
Practice Patience
Snowplows travel at slow speeds to do their job properly. It is important to be patient when following a snowplow to ensure you do not cause or get into an accident. During winter, allow yourself extra time to arrive at your destination just in case roads are being plowed on your travel path. Leave a safe distance between you and the snowplow to accommodate for sudden stops, snow buildup and other unexpected issues. Snow clouds may form behind the snowplow and impair your visibility.
Pass Safely
It is best to not pass snowplows on the roads. Traveling behind a snowplow with a freshly plowed road is better than traveling in front of a snowplow with snow built up.
If you must pass a snowplow, do so safely. Never pass on the right side. Snowplows focus on pushing snow to the right side of the road, making passing on the right incredibly dangerous. Pass slowly and in a safe passing zone. Consider the driver has difficulty seeing and may not be aware that you are passing until you are in front of their vehicle. Plows can sometimes hit drifts or other things buried in the snow and move sideways, causing concerns. Leave extra space when passing to accommodate for the plow, snow buildup and potential spreaders.
Pay Attention To Your Surroundings
Snowplow drivers have difficulty seeing and need to drive slowly to ensure they do not wreck into someone or something else. It is up to you to pay attention to the surroundings. Snow builds up around the snowplow and can cause accidents for distracted or impatient drivers. Remember that snowplows remove snow on the roads but may leave the roads still slick from ice buildup under the snow. Stay especially cautious of ice on bridges and overpasses.
Snowplows are very important to winter driving safety but do require patience on the roads. Many accidents each year involve snowplows. Please be a responsible driver, watch for these vehicles and exercise caution.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
