The New York State Department of Transportation is reminding drivers of safe driving habits during the winter months.
They want drivers to get where they need to safely and remind them “Don’t Crowd The Plow.”
Don’t Crowd The Plow Initiative in New York
Snow is constantly in the forecast across New York State, which comes as no surprise because well…it’s winter.
Every time the flakes start to fall the New York State DOT shares their “Don’t Crowd the Plow” initiative. According to the the DOT website “Plows are big and have many blind spots” and their size and weight makes it harder to move and stop quickly than smaller vehicles on the road.
Not only is their size a dangerous factor, but trucks that are “actively plowing can kick up clouds of snow that reduce visibility for motorist.” While doing so ridges can be created between lanes making lane changes difficult for drivers.
With all of that being said, the NYS DOT explains “motorists should never pass snow plows.”
To ensure your safety they suggest saying “up to eight car lengths” behind a plow during snow storms.
One driver in Upstate, New York clearly misunderstood the rules.
Upstate, NY Driver Crowds The Plow Narrowly Avoiding Disaster
On January 5th, 2026, the New York State Department of Transportation shared a truly terrifying video.
In the video, that was taken in Franklin County, you can see a plow truck driving at night. Then a smaller vehicle is seen crossing a solid yellow line, maneuvering around the plow and narrowly avoiding a head-on collision.
You can see the video below:
The DOT wrote in the caption:
Passing a plow means driving into untreated pavement, reduced visibility, and unpredictable conditions. It is dangerous and completely avoidable.
Make better choices. Slow down. Let plows do their job safely.
Safe Driving in the Snow in New York
According to the DOT during the winter months of 2023 to 2024 they plowed over 7.6 millions miles of road and 1.2 million lane miles.
Take a look at the official driving safety tip video from the DOT below:
The DOT also wants to remind New York motorists the following:
“Remember – none of our practices are intended to slow you down. They are intended to maximize safety! Be patient and drive with caution.
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