SASKATOON – Snow plow operators have already been out in full force on Saskatchewan highways to clear the way for drivers. Over 300 snow plows are stationed across the province and are available around the clock.
Blading snow off highways can create mini blizzards behind snow plows and is referred to as the ‘snow zone.’ These can make it difficult to see snow removal equipment, especially in windy conditions.
The Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure announced Tuesday it is launching a media campaign to remind drivers to slow down and let snow plows clear the way.
If a driver comes upon a plow, they are asked to slow down and let them do their job safely. Remember, that it takes a much longer distance to stop on ice covered roads.
Since 1998, there have been 77 collisions involving snow plows. According to the ministry, the vast majority of these are rear‐end collisions.
Drivers who pass plows travelling over 60 km/h could face a fine. Motorists caught will receive a $210 ticket and a $60 victims’ surcharge. There is a $3 fine tacked on for every kilometre an hour over 60 km/h and it doubles after 90 km/h.
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Snow plows may travel at speeds as slow as 30 km/h when pushing snow and spreading salt and sand. Operators pull over roughly every 10 kilometres to let trailing vehicles pass.
Highways in Saskatchewan are plowed on a priority system based on daily traffic and access to communities:
- Level 1 – To be cleared within six hours of a storm’s end. These are major inter-provincial and commuter routes that have a daily traffic count of 1,500 vehicles or more.
- Level 2 – To be cleared within 12 hours. These routes have a daily traffic count between 300 and 1,500 vehicles.
- Level 3 – To be cleared within a day. These are all other highways with a traffic count of 300 vehicles or less.
People can check out the upgraded Highway Hotline for the latest road conditions. The ministry says it’s accessed on average of 3 million times yearly.
READ MORE: Improvements made to Saskatchewan’s Highway Hotline
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