As snow and ice cover roads in Otter Tail County, snowplow drivers are hard at work ensuring safer conditions for travelers. On behalf of the team, the face behind Plowasaurus shares a few safety reminders for drivers who share highways with equipment operators.

Slow down

One of the most important aspects of winter driving is slowing down. Snowplows typically travel at about 20 mph to clear snow effectively. Attempting to pass or following too closely increases the risk of a crash. It’s important to give plows plenty of space to do their job. Please adjust your speed for icy or snow-covered roads.

Big trucks, longer stops

Remember, a fully loaded snowplow truck cannot stop as quickly as a car. Drivers should maintain a safe following distance of at least 10 car lengths behind a plow. This extra space keeps you safe and allows the plow driver room to clear the roads.

Temperatures matter

Salt works most effectively when air temperatures stay above 15 degrees Fahrenheit. In lower temperatures, Otter Tail County focuses on sporadic sanding around curves and near stop signs. Unlike some other agencies, the county does not have a bare pavements policy due to costs meaning the Highway Department’s goal is not to clear roads down to the blacktop.

Blind spots

Like all large vehicles, snowplows have significant blind spots, especially along the sides and rear. If motorists can’t see the plow driver in their mirrors, they can’t see motorists either. While getting stuck behind a snowplow may be frustrating, please remember they are working to make the roads safer for everyone.

“We thank drivers for their patience,” says Otter Tail County’s Highway Maintenance Supervisor Cristi Field. “We do what we do to improve road conditions for everyone’s safety and convenience, and we appreciate everyone’s patience especially this time of year.”

Minnesota 511

Download the app or visit www.511mn.org, Minnesota’s Department of Transportation (MnDOT) traveler information resource, for more information on road conditions, live camera views, and other traffic updates for state highways 10, 34, 59, 78, 108, 210, and I-94 through Otter Tail County.

By staying alert, slowing down, and giving snowplows the needed space, you can help ensure a safer winter driving season and efficient maintenance operations for all travelers in Otter Tail County.