The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
Motorists are urged to take caution and drive with care when approaching snow plows operating on provincial highways. "Our snow plow operators are often out in treacherous conditions to make the highways as safe as possible," Highways and Transportation Minister Eldon Lautermilch said. "Our dedicated staff will do their best to keep the highways clear. It is up to motorists to drive with caution in the Snow Zone for everyone's safety." Since 1998, Saskatchewan Highways and Transportation has recorded a total of 30 accidents involving snow plows, and noted the number of collisions has increased on a yearly basis Ð up from two in 1998 to nine in 2004. Since January of 2005, there have been a total of six accidents. "I've been through some serious accidents in my 25 years driving a snow plow," snow plow operator Ed Lowenberger said. "We're trying to do the best job possible to keep motorists safe, but we can't do our job without the public's help Ð please give the snow plow room to work." Blading snow off the road creates a mini blizzard or "Snow Zone" around the plow, especially in windy conditions. This can significantly limit driver visibility. The vast majority of accidents in the Snow Zone are rear-end collisions where motorists don't see the snow plow, or see it too late. When approaching a snow plow, slow down and proceed with caution. Motorists are reminded to have patience as snow plows operate at slower speeds Ð sometimes as slow as 30-40 km/h Ð when pushing snow and spreading salt and sand. The operator will pull over every 10 km to allow vehicles to pass. In addition, snow plows stop at all railway crossings to ensure it is safe to cross and that the plow blade will clear the track. Remember to check out road conditions at www.highways.gov.sk.ca or call the Highway Hotline for up-to-date highway driving information: Toll-free throughout Saskatchewan: 1-888-335-7623.
