Last year in Minnesota, there were 21 crashes involving vehicles that hit snowplows. This is typically caused by inattentive drivers, motorists driving too close to the plow or motorists driving too fast.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation says 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.

“We all must get back into winter driving mode, which means increasing caution and patience while reducing distractions,” MnDOT Acting Commissioner Bernie Arseneau said. “To keep themselves safe and the highways open, motorists need to stay at least five car lengths away from snowplows and give the plows time to remove the snow.”