Motorists urged to use caution when driving near snowplows
by Wyoming Department of Transportation
December 23, 2017
The Wyoming Department of Transportation urges motorists to be extra alert for snowplows that will be out maintaining the roads when there’s ice and snow.
"They need to be alert for slow moving snowplows which are out clearing the roads and making travel safe for all motorists," said Mark Gillett, assistant chief engineer – Operations.
Snowplows travel at 25 to 45 mph, depending on conditions. Motorists should stay a safe distance behind the plows until it’s safe to pass.
"A 12-foot plow can create a pretty good fog of snow," Gillett said. "If a motorist is coming up behind a cloud of snow, they shouldn’t just drive into it because there may be a snowplow in there. If motorists see something like that they need to stay back. They should wait until they can see the truck and then cautiously pass if they need to."
"We’re urging motorists to be patient when driving in wintry conditions," Gillett said. "Our snowplow drivers are out there working hard to clear the roads and make them safe for motorists to get to their destinations."
Motorists can also travel safer this winter season by checking WYDOT’s 511 travel information website at www.wyoroad.info, having an emergency kit, checking their tires, allotting for extra time to reach their destinations and letting someone know where they’re heading.
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