NEWS RELEASE
ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE
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WELLINGTON COUNTY - Wellington County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is busy patrolling our roadways this winter and so are the Roads Departments. Snow plow operators are out working to improve road conditions and the OPP offer these road safety tips for drivers;
• Be patient and keep a safe distance behind working plows. These units often travel slowly because they are removing snow, spreading salt or sand, and applying liquid anti-ice to roadways.
• Never pass a plow. These vehicles are wider than average ones with large blades that extend a metre or more ahead and into the neighbouring lane.
• Don't drive beside plows. You risk a collision, as plows sometimes shift sideways when they are plowing packed snow or drifts.
• Move aside. Plows often work along the centre line of a roadway to remove snow. If you are approaching one from the opposite direction, shift right if conditions allow, ensuring there is enough space for them to pass you safely.
• Beware of reduced visibility. Even at reduced plowing speeds, a light powdery snow forms a cloud in the wake of a snow plow that severely restricts a trailing driver's visibility, making passing extremely dangerous.
• Do not pass between snow plows in tandem. On multi-lane roads, snow plows often work in tandem. Passing or weaving between these plows is dangerous. Please stay well back of such groups.
It is important for all motorists to allow plow operators the room to work to avoid a potentially deadly collision. Be patient, slow down and ensure you are well prepared for winter roads and always adjust your speed to the existing conditions.
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