Town of Avon encourages travelers to be aware of snowplow operations as the Operations crew will be working to maintain the roadways and sidewalks.
As we head into winter, this is a reminder that several passenger vehicles in previous seasons have attempted to pass plow trucks while they are cleaning the roads. For plows to remove snow efficiently and apply deicing materials safely, they must operate at a maximum speed of 25 miles per hour. This may feel slow to drivers following a snowplow, but attempting to pass is extremely dangerous.
The ultimate advice to avoid an accident is simply: “DO NOT CROWD THE PLOW”. When there is an accident involving a plow truck, we can no longer maintain the roadways for everyone.
Colorado law states (House Bill 19-265) that drivers should not crowd snowplows, and there are several rules to follow:
- Don’t pass: It’s illegal to pass a snowplow that’s operating in a tandem formation, which is when multiple plows are arranged diagonally to cover all lanes.
- Stay back: Drivers should maintain at least 3-4 car lengths of space behind snowplows.
- Don’t tailgate: Tailgating is dangerous because plows need to drop sand and deicer, which could hit your car if you’re too close.
- Don’t pass on the right: Plows push snow, slush, rocks and other debris to the right, which could damage your car and obstruct visibility.
- Be visible: Ensure the snowplow driver can see you at all times.
- Allow time to stop: Give the snowplow driver time to slow down or stop.
- Avoid obstructing visibility: Don’t create a cloud of snow or release material that could obstruct visibility.
The penalty for passing a snowplow in a tandem formation includes a fine of $15-$100, a surcharge, and possible points added to your driver’s license.
