Ask A Trooper – Snow Plow Safety
Question: I’ve heard about some snow plows getting hit out on the highway this winter. Can you remind people what they should be doing when sharing the roads with our plow drivers?
Answer: For people to stay safe around plows, they just need to practice good common sense and have some patience.
- Give Space: Stay at least 10 car lengths (about 200 feet) behind a plow.
- Avoid Snow Clouds: Never drive into the cloud of snow and spray behind a plow.
- Be Patient & Slow Down: Plows work slowly (20-30 mph) to clear roads; slow down to a safe speed for conditions.
- Stay Alert: Plows may drift over the centerline or partially into traffic, and their wing plows can extend 10 feet out from the truck.
- Don’t Pass: Passing is dangerous due to hidden obstacles and the plow’s width; let operators pull over when it’s safe.
- Use Your Lights: Turn on your headlights and turn off cruise control.
You can avoid a ticket — and a crash — if you simply buckle up, drive at safe speeds, pay attention and always drive sober. Help us drive Minnesota Toward Zero Deaths.
If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota send your questions to Sgt. Troy Christianson – Minnesota State Patrol at 2900 48th Street NW, Rochester MN 55901-5848. (Or reach him at, Troy.Christianson@state.mn.us)
