Save Your Money! Find Out Why Drivers in This US State Are Getting Slammed With $100 Fines
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Winter is here, and with it comes snowy, icy roads that can make driving tricky.
To keep everyone safe, lawmakers in Michigan are cracking down on dangerous driving habits this season.
So, if you’re planning a road trip to the Great Lakes State, you might want to familiarize yourself with this new law to avoid a costly mistake.
Understanding the New Snowplow Safety Law
The new law targets drivers who tailgate snowplows when they are actively engaged in clearing the roads. This includes salting, sanding, and plowing to remove snow and ice.
The rule is in effect when snowplows have their operating lights on, signaling that they are performing their duties on behalf of the state or local municipalities.
The legislation was introduced after state data revealed a concerning trend. Over the last five years, Michigan has seen 114 crashes involving snowplows, with 20 occurring in 2021 and 19 in 2022.
These numbers highlight the dangers posed by poor visibility and slippery conditions, which can make it challenging for drivers to stop in time to avoid a collision.
The fine comes into play when drivers do not respect this distance while snowplows are in operation. However, there are exceptions to the rule.
For instance, when a snowplow is stopped or at an intersection, the required separation distance is reduced to 20 feet. Additionally, the law does not apply to drivers who are in the process of overtaking a snowplow.
Initially, the bill proposed a 200-foot distance on roadways with speed limits above 35 mph. However, the final legislation requires the separation distance to be observed on all roads, regardless of the speed limit.
“Snowplows are critical to keeping Michigan roadways clear in the wintertime,” he stated.
“By giving snowplows the space they need to keep our roadways clear, this legislation ensures Michigan drivers can get from one place to another as safely as possible.”
The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has long advocated giving snowplows ample room to operate.
MDOT spokesperson John Richard expressed support for the bill, noting that it aligns with the department’s safety message: “Snowplows need room to groom.”
Not only does it help you avoid unnecessary fines, but it also contributes to the overall safety of our roads during the challenging winter months.
We encourage you to share this information with friends and family, especially those who may be hitting the snowy roads this season. Remember, while new laws like these may seem like an inconvenience, it’s a small price to pay for the safety it brings to everyone on the road.
Have you experienced any close calls with snowplows or winter driving conditions? Do you have any additional tips for safe winter driving? Join the conversation and share your thoughts in the comments below. Together, we can help each other navigate the winter roads safely and economically.
To keep everyone safe, lawmakers in Michigan are cracking down on dangerous driving habits this season.
So, if you’re planning a road trip to the Great Lakes State, you might want to familiarize yourself with this new law to avoid a costly mistake.
Michigan urges drivers to take it slow and leave extra space when following snowplows on icy roads. Source: Kenny Eliason/Unsplash.
Understanding the New Snowplow Safety Law
The new law targets drivers who tailgate snowplows when they are actively engaged in clearing the roads. This includes salting, sanding, and plowing to remove snow and ice.
The rule is in effect when snowplows have their operating lights on, signaling that they are performing their duties on behalf of the state or local municipalities.
The legislation was introduced after state data revealed a concerning trend. Over the last five years, Michigan has seen 114 crashes involving snowplows, with 20 occurring in 2021 and 19 in 2022.
These numbers highlight the dangers posed by poor visibility and slippery conditions, which can make it challenging for drivers to stop in time to avoid a collision.
The Specifics of the Fine and When It Applies
Drivers must maintain a safe distance (200 feet) from snowplows, which is now mandated by law.The fine comes into play when drivers do not respect this distance while snowplows are in operation. However, there are exceptions to the rule.
For instance, when a snowplow is stopped or at an intersection, the required separation distance is reduced to 20 feet. Additionally, the law does not apply to drivers who are in the process of overtaking a snowplow.
Initially, the bill proposed a 200-foot distance on roadways with speed limits above 35 mph. However, the final legislation requires the separation distance to be observed on all roads, regardless of the speed limit.
The Importance of Giving Snowplows Room to Work
State Senator Sam Singh, who sponsored the bill, emphasized the necessity of the law for safer winter travel.“Snowplows are critical to keeping Michigan roadways clear in the wintertime,” he stated.
“By giving snowplows the space they need to keep our roadways clear, this legislation ensures Michigan drivers can get from one place to another as safely as possible.”
The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has long advocated giving snowplows ample room to operate.
MDOT spokesperson John Richard expressed support for the bill, noting that it aligns with the department’s safety message: “Snowplows need room to groom.”
Practical Tips to Keep You Safe on Slick Roads
In light of the new law, it’s also a good time to brush up on other winter driving safety tips. Here are some to keep in mind as you drive through this winter season:- Know your car’s limits. Some cars handle winter weather better than others. If you have a front-wheel-drive vehicle, it might be less stable on ice than an all-wheel-drive model.
- Avoid sudden movements. When the roads are slick, sudden stops or quick turns can cause skidding. Try to make slow, gradual movements with the wheel and pedals.
- Use lower gear on hills. If you’re driving on an incline, switch to a lower gear to maintain better control and avoid slipping.
- Keep your gas tank half-full. This helps prevent the gas line from freezing in extreme cold, which can leave you stranded.
- Check the forecast before heading out. It helps if you can plan around storms and avoid driving in heavy snow or freezing rain when possible.
Stay Informed and Stay Safe
As a member of The GrayVine community, staying informed about new traffic laws and safety measures is crucial.Not only does it help you avoid unnecessary fines, but it also contributes to the overall safety of our roads during the challenging winter months.
We encourage you to share this information with friends and family, especially those who may be hitting the snowy roads this season. Remember, while new laws like these may seem like an inconvenience, it’s a small price to pay for the safety it brings to everyone on the road.
Have you experienced any close calls with snowplows or winter driving conditions? Do you have any additional tips for safe winter driving? Join the conversation and share your thoughts in the comments below. Together, we can help each other navigate the winter roads safely and economically.
