THUNDER BAY – Motorists in Northwestern Ontario are being asked to exercise caution when driving near snowplows on highways in the region.
According to an OPP release, issued on Wednesday, snow-plow operators are reporting an increase in dangerous driving behaviours, including vehicles following too closely or making dangerous passing attempts, particularly when the plows are in an echelon formation.
The formation allows plows to clear multiple lanes efficiently, but drivers often attempt to weave between plows, which puts themselves and the plow drivers at significant risk.
Poor driving, the OPP say, is a leading cause of wintertime collisions on Ontario highways, not poor driving conditions.
A recent video captured by a motorist showed a transport narrowly avoiding a potentially deadly collision with a school bus on Highway 17, trying to pass a snow plow near Rainbow Falls Provincial Park.
OPP remind drivers to stay alert when behind the wheel, focus on the road, other vehicles and to eliminate all distractions, including cell phones and other electronic devices.
Police also ask drivers to slow down and stay in control, and to adjust driving to current weather conditions. Leave extra space between vehicles too, as stopping distances lengthen on snow-covered or ice-covered roads.
Most of all, be patient when plows are in the area and never try to pass them when they are working in formation.
