OPP Remind Residents to Give Snow Plows Room to Work

Web posted on January 21, 2013

Allow Snowplow Operators Room to Work
(County of Wellington, ON) There are lots of things to consider while driving in winter weather conditions, one of which is the slow moving snowplow up ahead in the line of traffic on area highways.

Snowplows by their very design can cause extensive damage or even death if involved in a collision. It isn't uncommon on multi-lane highways to encounter plows staggered side by side travelling between 65km/h to 75km/h clearing the highway in one sweep. The average speed of a plow is well below the posted speed limit.

This is because the truck has to slow down to clear the roadway safely. Ahead of the plow is usually an untreated, snow covered and often very slippery roadway, and passing a snow plow can be a risky maneuver.

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.

Snow Clearing
(County of Wellington, ON.) - County and Township personnel have been working tirelessly to clear the roadways to make them safer for motorists. The last thing an unsuspecting driver needs when driving down the roadway, thinking all has been cleared; then come upon a large pile at the end of a driveway. Striking this pile of snow may cause the driver to lose control and veer off the road or even into oncoming traffic.

Under the Highway Traffic Act of Ontario, it is against the law to shovel your snow back onto the roadway, and if charged for doing so may result in a ticket for $110.00.

An example of section 181 of the Highway Traffic Act:

Deposit of snow on roadway
181. - No person shall deposit snow or ice on a roadway without permission in writing so to do from the Ministry or the road authority responsible for the maintenance of the road. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.8, s. 181.