In order to stay safe on the roads this season, the provincial government is reminding drivers to take care when approaching and passing snowplows this winter.
There are about five accidents involving snowplows in Saskatchewan each year, and the Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure wants to remind drivers of the etiquette when encountering a snowplow on the road.
“Our snowplow operators are out working, often in poor weather, to provide safe roads for travellers in Saskatchewan,” said Highways and Infrastructure Minister Greg Ottenbreit, in a press release. “At times, our snowplows encounter others on the road that are travelling at speeds or passing in ways that make working conditions risky. We simply ask: be aware, pass with care.”
Drivers are allowed to pass snowplows that are moving, provided they do so when it is safe and with caution.
Snowplows are considered emergency vehicles, which means drivers must slow to 60 kilometres per hour when passing an emergency vehicle with warning lights flashing.
Snowplows use flashing amber and blue lights, with the blues lights activated when the vehicle is plowing, salting, or sanding.
Drivers are also advised to stay back from a working snowplow, as they create mini blizzards around them as they work — called the 'Snow Zone' — which reduce visibility.
When approaching a snowplow from the opposite direction, drivers are encouraged to pull over to the side of the road as far as possible and allow the snowplow to pass.
Snowplows also regularly pull over around every 10 kilometres or so, so being patient and waiting for a safe opportunity could prevent an accident.
The ministry encourages drivers to be aware of weather and road conditions, and be cautious on the roads this winter. The Highway Hotline keeps updated with road conditions that drivers can check either online or by calling 511.
