GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) – The Wisconsin DOT is reminding drivers to pay attention while driving this winter as we recognize Monday as Snowplow Driver Appreciation Day.
Wisconsin is entering the time of year when snow and ice begin to cover the ground. David Hunt is a WisDOT spokesman, and he says it’s important to take a moment and think about the people who clear the roads.
“Take it easy, slow down, give yourself some additional time. That is one of the best ways you can say ‘thank you’ to a snowplow driver,” Hunt tells WTAQ News, “no matter where you’re going, no matter the capability of your vehicle, you never know what those conditions are going to bring. You never know exactly when that road is going to be clear, but one thing is for certain; there’s going to be people out there working really long hours trying to make sure all of us stay safe.”
Hunt says snowplow drivers often spend incredibly long hours in their trucks.
“To some people winter is a season, but to others it’s a 365 day affair where if it’s not actually winter and snowing, they’re getting ready, doing training on the plow driving, preparing to try making those roads as clear as they can when those storms hit,” Hunt says, “These are folks who really care deeply about public safety. What it all comes down to is public safety and making sure those routes people use every day are clear and safe for driving.”
It’s also advised to stay at least 200 feet behind any working snowplow, and to make sure you can see the plow’s mirrors to ensure they can see you. Drivers can often become impatient and try to pass a slower-moving snowplow, but it’s important to remember that the road in front of them likely has not been treated. Hunt emphasizes the point that no vehicle is immune to winter weather.
“We caution against people getting overconfident, regardless of what kind of vehicle they drive. Everybody will require considerable distance to stop on slick roadways. Black ice is a phenomenon that affects people driving any kind of vehicle.”
Most traffic crashes in winter are caused by drivers going too fast for conditions. Posted speed limits only apply when travel conditions are ideal.
WisDOT contracts with all 72 county highway departments for winter maintenance on state roads.
