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- Kevin Gutknecht
651-366-4266
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395 John Ireland Blvd
Mail Stop 150
St. Paul, MN 55155-1899
MnDOT snowplow crews tackling winter weather
Plow drivers rely on motorists to help keep Minnesota roads safe
ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Transportation’s snowplow operators are out treating and clearing roads as Minnesotans in most parts of the state are experiencing several inches of snow throughout the day and continuing into tomorrow.
As much as 12 inches of snow is predicted by Tuesday, possibly mixed with freezing drizzle.
MnDOT reminds motorists to do their part to keep themselves safe on the road and to give plow drivers room to work safely.
Operators have much to monitor and control, and their ability to see behind them is limited by side mirrors. Their vision can also be hampered by the snow clouds they create while plowing.
Safe driving means:
- Check road conditions at www.511mn.org or call 511; it takes time to get roads back to good driving conditions.
- Be patient and remember snowplows are working to improve road conditions for your trip.
- Stay back at least five car lengths behind the plow, far from the snow cloud. Snowplow operators will pull over when it is safe to do so to allow traffic build-up to pass.
- Stay alert for snowplows that turn or exit frequently and often with little warning. They may also travel over centerlines or partially in traffic to further improve road conditions.
- Slow down to a safe speed for current conditions, and give yourself plenty of travel time. Snowplows typically move at slower speeds.
- Buckle up and ensure children are properly secured in the correct child restraint.
- Avoid unnecessary travel if road conditions are too poor.
For additional information, go to www.mndot.gov/workzone or follow #mnstorm on Twitter. Go to
http://youtu.be/tN4Fy6MJ0DA for a link to a video demonstrating what can happen to vehicles driving too fast on winter roads.
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PAY ATTENTION IS FOR SUMMER
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