Cook County News Herald

MnDOT urges motorists to be cautious when driving near snowplows



There have been more than 25 crashes so far this winter involving vehicles and state snowplows. With winter far from over, the Minnesota Department of Transportation is urging motorists to use extra caution during plowing and snow removal operations.

“The main causes of these crashes are motorists driving too fast for conditions, driving too close to the plow and driver inattention,” said Todd Stevens, acting state maintenance engineer. “Our snowplow drivers are well-trained to operate their plows, which often travel much slower than the posted speeds because it is most effective for clearing roads.

“For safety’s sake, motorists need to be patient and stay back from the plow.”

Last year in Minnesota, there were 84 crashes involving vehicles and MnDOT snowplows.

Minnesota law requires motorists to turn on their headlights when it’s snowing or at any other time when weather conditions impair visibility.

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