Driving during winter in Ontario can be a challenging experience, especially when encountering snowplows on the road. These large vehicles are essential for maintaining safe driving conditions by removing snow and spreading salt or sand. However, many drivers are unsure about the proper protocol when it comes to passing a snowplow. Understanding the laws, risks, and best practices associated with passing a snowplow in Ontario is crucial for ensuring road safety during snowy conditions.
Ontario Laws on Passing a Snowplow
What the Highway Traffic Act Says
In Ontario, the Highway Traffic Act outlines specific rules regarding snowplows. According to the law, it is illegal to pass a working snowplow on the right when it is in motion and actively clearing the road. Snowplows often travel in groups, especially on multi-lane highways, to clear large sections of road efficiently. Passing any of them especially on the right poses a significant danger to both the driver and the snowplow operator.
Penalties for Passing Illegally
Drivers caught illegally passing a snowplow in Ontario may face serious penalties. These include fines, demerit points, and increased insurance premiums. Depending on the severity and risk involved in the infraction, a driver could also be charged with careless driving. The authorities take this seriously due to the number of accidents and near misses involving snowplows each year.
Dangers of Passing a Snowplow
Reduced Visibility
One of the primary risks of passing a snowplow is the significantly reduced visibility. Snowplows throw up clouds of snow, slush, and ice, which can obscure your view completely for several seconds. This creates dangerous blind spots that can cause a collision or lead to your vehicle sliding off the road.
Unexpected Road Conditions
Snowplows often travel at slower speeds for a reason: they are clearing snow, ice, and slush from treacherous road surfaces. When a vehicle tries to overtake a snowplow, it may enter a section of the road that has not been cleared, resulting in reduced traction and control. Additionally, there could be hidden obstructions like snowbanks, debris, or uneven surfaces that the driver cannot see.
Large Blind Spots of Snowplows
Snowplows are large and have multiple blind spots, especially on the passenger side. Drivers may not be visible to the snowplow operator if they attempt to pass on that side. This increases the risk of a collision, particularly if the plow needs to shift lanes or avoid an obstacle.
Best Practices When Driving Near a Snowplow
Stay Well Back
Maintain a safe following distance behind a snowplow. It is recommended to stay at least 150 to 200 feet behind, especially on highways. This distance allows the snowplow room to operate and gives drivers enough time to react if the plow suddenly slows down or stops.
Be Patient
Snowplows move slowly for a reason. While it might be frustrating to drive behind one, it’s often safer and more efficient to wait until it exits the road or turns off. Attempting to pass could result in delays or accidents that far outweigh the few minutes saved.
Never Pass on the Right
Passing a snowplow on the right is particularly dangerous because the snow and slush are often being discharged in that direction. It’s also where visibility is the lowest. Always pass on the left if and only if it is legal, safe, and absolutely necessary to do so.
Use Headlights and Reduce Speed
Always turn on your headlights during snowy or foggy conditions to increase your visibility to other drivers, including snowplow operators. Also, reduce your speed when following or approaching a snowplow to maintain control and react appropriately to changing road conditions.
What to Do if You Must Pass a Snowplow
Ensure Maximum Visibility
If passing is unavoidable, wait until visibility is clear, and there is sufficient room on the road. Make sure there are no approaching vehicles and that the road surface ahead has been cleared adequately. Use your turn signal and check all mirrors before moving into the passing lane.
Pass Quickly but Safely
Do not linger beside the snowplow. Once it is safe to pass, accelerate steadily and maintain a consistent speed to complete the maneuver quickly. The longer you remain beside the snowplow, the higher the risk of an accident.
Multi-Plow Formations
Why They Travel in Groups
In heavy snow conditions, snowplows often operate in staggered formations. This allows them to clear several lanes at once and ensures a uniform snow removal pattern. These formations can stretch across all lanes, making passing virtually impossible and highly discouraged.
Wait Until the Formation Breaks
If you find yourself behind such a group, do not attempt to weave between plows or pass on the shoulder. Instead, reduce your speed, stay alert, and wait until the formation breaks up or exits the highway. Authorities often advise the public through traffic alerts when and where to expect plow formations.
Safety Reminders from Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation
- Always treat snowplows as emergency vehicles give them the right of way.
- Be aware that snowplows may make sudden stops or turns.
- Keep your windshield and mirrors clear for optimal visibility.
- Stay tuned to weather and traffic updates before starting your journey.
- Prepare your vehicle for winter driving with snow tires and emergency supplies.
Passing a snowplow in Ontario is not just a matter of convenience it’s a matter of safety. Understanding the laws, respecting the limitations of snow-clearing operations, and driving cautiously during winter conditions can prevent accidents and ensure smoother traffic flow for everyone. Patience, awareness, and adherence to safety rules go a long way in protecting yourself and others on the road. During snowstorms and freezing temperatures, it’s always better to arrive a few minutes late than not at all.