Snowy weather brings reminder on road safety

Winter weather has arrived, and the Minnesota Department of Transportation wants drivers to be ready for conditions.

Hundreds of snowplow operators work during winter storms to keep road conditions as safe and clear as possible. Motorists should remember to slow down, stay alert, and stay back at least 10 car lengths and use extra caution when driving near snowplows.

The same goes for general safe driving on winter roads. The Cloquet Police Department on Wednesday reported that the Tuesday snowfall led to five automobile damge accidents. Officers responded to two vehicles in ditches and assisted the Minnesota State patrol with two accidents on Interstate 35.

“Motorists need to be prepared for changing road conditions to be sure their drive is safe and uneventful,” said Steve Lund, MnDOT maintenance engineer. “When driving near snowplows, remember to be patient and give our operators plenty of room to work so that they can improve road conditions and help you get where you need to be.”

If travel is necessary, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety recommends everyone in the vehicle is dressed for the cold weather. Motorists should keep blankets, water, food, phone chargers and an emergency kit in your vehicle.

Safe winter driving recommendations for all motorists include:

• Don’t drive while distracted.

• Stay alert for snowplows, which turn or exit frequently, and often with little warning. They also may travel over centerlines or partially in traffic to further improve road conditions.

• Stay back at least 10 car lengths behind the plow. Don’t drive into a snow cloud.

• Slow down to a safe speed for current conditions.

• Turn on your headlights and wear your seat belt.

• Turn off the cruise control.

• Be patient and remember snowplows are working to improve road conditions for your trip.

MnDOT also encourages motorists to check 511mn.org before they travel to see current road conditions and view highway and snowplow cameras along their route.