I would like every road user to take a few minutes to read this. You might learn something that could save you a lot of frustration, prevent accidents, and even save lives.
• A snowplow can measure up to 16 feet wide with its wing extended — that’s the width of 3 cars.
• It can weigh up to 34,000 kg (75,000 lbs) — the weight of 30 cars.
• The driver’s visibility is greatly reduced because of the equipment.
• The optimal spreading speed is 40 km/h.
• The maximum plowing speed is 50 km/h.
• We must significantly reduce our speed to do our job properly, especially when approaching guardrails, concrete barriers, sidewalks, and any other obstacles.
• The front blade must cross over the yellow centerline while plowing, and material must be spread along the centerline for best results.
• At intersections, we need to back up several times to do our job correctly. Remember that our visibility is very poor, especially on the right side.
• Our right turns are extremely wide.
In summary: we are big, we are slow, we are not very maneuverable, we encroach on the other lane, and we don’t see very well. So help us help you.
What you can — and should — do:
• Keep a safe distance behind us. This prevents you from being blinded by snow bursts and helps us see you better.
• Be visible. Keep your headlights on; don’t rely only on daytime running lights.
• When meeting a snowplow coming the opposite way, move to the right and slow down. We encroach on your lane and will stay there.
• If you pass us, do so carefully and without lingering beside us.
• NEVER, EVER, EVER pass us on the right. NEVER!
• At intersections, give us space to maneuver. If we are stopped, take time to assess whether it’s safe to proceed; if we are moving, come to a full stop and make sure you are visible.
• Do not pass on curves, hills, or when visibility is poor. A burst of snow can occur at any moment and make you lose sight of the road.
• Remember that our visibility is poor and we are constantly being blinded by snow and water splashing onto our windows.
And remember…
• We are on the road during the worst conditions with one of the biggest vehicles possible — not very fast, with very poor visibility — driving through an endless obstacle course.
We often work long hours, and we do it for you.
Help us help you. Don’t be one more obstacle.
