These Are Crucial Winter Safe Driving Tips For Minnesotans

MINNESOTA — With our first winter storms already in the book, the Minnesota Department of Transportation reminds motorists to drive safe and use extra caution during plowing and snow removal operations.

Extra caution should be used on bridges, ramps, roundabouts and other intersections as they tend to ice-up quicker than other segments of the roadway.

Snowplow drivers are well trained, but motorists should be patient, stay back from the plow and only pass when it is safe to do so. Snowplows travel slower than the posted speeds because it is most effective for clearing roads, according to a news release.

Operators’ ability to see behind them is restricted behind the truck so they must rely on mirrors to see to the rear and side of the truck.

Here are some other recommendations for safe driving around snowplows:

• Stay alert for snowplows, which turn or exit frequently and often with little warning. They also may travel over centerlines or partially in traffic to further improve road conditions.
• Stay back at least 10 car lengths behind the plow. Don’t drive into a snow cloud.
• Slow down to a safe speed for current conditions.
• Turn on your headlights and wear your seat belt.
• Turn off the cruise control.
• Be patient and remember snowplows are working to improve road conditions for your trip.
• Don’t drive distracted.