Driving in the winter comes with hazards, even in places like South Jersey, where you never know if you’re getting snow, rain, or nothing at all. However, the one overlooked risk isn’t the precipitation but the snowplows. These large, powerful machines keep our roads passable, but their size and function create unique dangers for drivers. Whether it’s navigating near an active snowplow or dealing with the aftermath of snow piles, understanding how to drive safely around plowed areas can prevent accidents and protect your vehicle. Today we’re going to introduce some tips, so you can keep your car dent-free this winter season.
Key Takeaways
- Snowplows present unique hazards, including reduced visibility, flying debris, large blind spots, and wide blades that require extra space on the road.
- Maintain at least a 200-foot distance behind snowplows, avoid passing them, and stay mindful of snow clouds that can obstruct your view.
- Snow piles left by plows can cause slick spots and limit visibility. Avoid parking or driving too close to these piles to reduce skidding risks.
- Snowplows and plowed areas can lead to windshield cracks, scratches, and dents. Elmer’s Auto Body offers repairs, paintwork, and ADAS recalibration for these winter-related damages.
Why Snowplows Can Pose Hazards to South Jersey Drivers
Snowplows are essential machinery when the snow falls heavily. While most snowplows operate during the hours most people are at home, there are instances where you may encounter them while driving. You may not think these machines a hazard, but snowplows are equipped with large, heavy blades and often carry sand or salt to improve road traction. Additionally, their limited visibility, low maneuverability, and slow speed can lead to unexpected hazards.
Some common risks posed by snowplows include:
- Reduced Visibility: Snowplows often create clouds of snow, reducing visibility for both the plow driver and nearby vehicles.
- Flying Debris: Snow, ice, and salt can fly from the plow’s blade, potentially damaging cars and windshields.
- Large Blind Spots: Drivers of these large machines often can’t see vehicles directly behind or beside them.
- Wide Blades: Snowplow blades can extend several feet beyond the truck’s width, making it easy to underestimate their space requirements.
Tips for Avoiding Collisions with Snowplows While Driving
Collisions with snowplows are rare but not impossible. As such, knowing how to navigate around these large obstacles while you drive is paramount. Here are some tips to ensure you don’t get into an accident with a snowplow in South Jersey:
- Keep a Safe Distance: Snowplows require extra space to operate safely. Stay at least 200 feet behind a snowplow and avoid tailgating, as the snowplow might make sudden stops or adjustments to avoid obstacles. If you’re too close, you risk windshield damage from flying snow or debris.
- Avoid Passing: Snowplows operate at slower speeds, which can be frustrating, but passing one can be extremely dangerous. Snowplows may suddenly shift lanes, and the snow, slush, and salt they push to the side can create slippery spots that are tough to navigate.
- Be Mindful of Snow Clouds: The snow cloud created by plows significantly reduces visibility. If you’re approaching a plow from the rear, slow down and increase the distance to give yourself a clear view of the road ahead and time to react to changes.
- Watch for Turning or Lane Shifts: Snowplows need space to turn and often travel at an angle to clear multiple lanes. If you see a plow preparing to shift, give it plenty of space to complete the maneuver.
The Hazards of Plowed Snow Piles in South Jersey
After a snowstorm, snowplows create snow piles along roadsides and in parking lots. These piles can present their own challenges to drivers, from reducing visibility at intersections to creating slick, icy patches around them. When possible, avoid parking near snow piles. Snow piles in parking lots are often difficult to see around, and they can also create slippery surfaces. Avoid parking too close to these areas to minimize the risk of skidding when exiting. Next, you want to drive slowly around snow piles. Snow piles can cause black ice to form on nearby pavement, so reduce your speed when driving near them.
Common Types of Snow-Plow Related Damage and How Elmer’s Auto Body Can Help
Snowplow-related incidents can lead to a variety of car damage. For example, flying debris in the snow can hit your windshield, causing cracks. Snow, salt, and debris from snowplows can also scratch or dent your vehicle’s exterior. The state-of-the-art paint and bodywork services at Elmer’s Auto Body will restore your car’s appearance and protect it from further rusting. Lastly, if you end up colliding with a snowplow or a pile of snow while driving, other damages may occur.
Bodywork and ADAS recalibration are part of what Elmer’s Auto Body does best. After calling your insurance company, call us. We’ll get you back on the road.
Drive Safe This Winter and Contact a Collision Repair Shop in South Jersey for Repairs
Winter driving around snowplows requires extra caution to protect yourself and your vehicle. By following safe driving practices, you can avoid unnecessary collisions or damage caused by plowed snow and debris. However, if winter roads lead to vehicle damage, Elmer’s Auto Body is here to help. With our experience, high-quality repair services, and commitment to customer satisfaction, we’ll get your vehicle safely back on the road.
Stay safe on the road, and reach out to one of our three South Jersey locations if you need expert winter repairs!