Governor declares November 30 Snowplow Driver Appreciation Day
Proclamation notes snowplow drivers’ vital role in keeping roadways safe and open for winter travel
Governor Scott Walker has proclaimed Monday, November 30, 2015 as Snowplow Driver Appreciation Day in Wisconsin. The Governor’s proclamation highlights the important role snowplow operators play in keeping people and commerce moving throughout Wisconsin’s winter season.
“Wisconsin’s 3,000 county and municipal snowplow operators often work long hours in challenging conditions so the rest of us can safely reach our destinations,” said Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) Secretary Mark Gottlieb. “As drivers, we can do our part by slowing down, giving snowplows plenty of room to work, and by staying off roads when severe winter weather makes travel treacherous.”
To enhance public safety and assist plow operators, WisDOT offers motorists the following tips:
- Before traveling, call 511 or go online (511wi.gov) to check on road conditions and possible incidents. Consider downloading the 511 Wisconsin smartphone app.
- Buckle up, watch what’s happening ahead of you and allow plenty of following distance.
- Ice and snow means take it slow. Posted speed limits apply when travel conditions are ideal. Posted speeds may be hazardous when roads are slick or visibility is reduced. Most traffic crashes in winter are caused by drivers going too fast for conditions.
- Stay at least 200 feet behind a working snowplow. Make sure that you can see the plow’s mirrors to ensure the driver is able to see you.
- If you must pass, be careful. Snowplows often create a cloud of snow that can obscure vision. Remember that road conditions in front of the plow will likely be worse.
- During major winter storms, postpone or cancel your trip. Stranded vehicles become hazards that interfere with snow removal efforts.
- Don’t be over-confident if you operate a four-wheel or all-wheel-drive vehicle. They still require a considerable distance to stop on slick roadways.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
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