#KnowBeforeYouGo and Don't Crowd the Plow

#KNOWBEFORE YOU GO

Winter has arrived in Montana, and the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) has tools to help plan for conditions so you can reach your destination safely - MDT’s traveler information system (MDT 511) and mobile applications. The new application was launched in 2021, with notable features that include:

• Clickable roadways to display conditions

• Ability to save favorite cameras or roadways

• Enhanced map layers

• Trip planning with a driving directions tool

• Weather forecasts

• Details on rest areas, sign messages, construction projects, and alerts

“My 511” email sign-up for direct alerts and conditions updates on selected routes or roadways

The website can be found at http://www.511mt.net. Mobile apps for Android and iOS can be found in the respective app stores. By default, three information layers (Road Conditions, Incidents and Events, and RWIS Cameras/Weather Information) are enabled on the app for first-time users, but you can toggle them on or off using the setting toggles located at the upper right corner of the map. If you find you don’t like the map-style navigation, you can use searchable lists at the top of the page.

Safety is a top priority for MDT, and these features and custom updates will allow all travelers to be better prepared for delays or incidents so they plan their trips accordingly.

To access the MDT Traveler Information application - including the interactive map and information on downloading the mobile app - scan the QR code below with your mobile device, or visit http://www.mdt.mt.gov/travinfo. Travelers can also call 511 from anywhere in Montana.

DON’T CROWD THE PLOW!

While driving, be on the lookout for snowplows and give the operators room to work. Many plows are hit by private vehicles each winter. This can cause serious harm to travelers and their vehicles, plus the plow truck and plow operator are taken out of service immediately following the incident. Drive safely this winter and keep these tips in mind:

Don’t crowd the plow: Plow drivers have limited visibility, so never assume your vehicle is in their view. When approaching an oncoming plow, don’t crowd the centerline of the road so they have space to safely pass in their travel lane.

Maintain a safe distance behind the snowplow. Plows do more than just remove snow! They may also be spreading sand or deicer on the road, so give them plenty of space to do the work needed to clear roads for travel.

Be patient, and never pass a plow in a whiteout. The plow driver will pull over when it is safe to do so, allowing vehicles to pass. When you do pass a plow, slow down and prepare for the road conditions ahead. The road in front of the plow is likely not as clear as the road behind it.

Slow down. Plows are large vehicles - particularly MDT’s TowPlow configurations - and move slower than highway speeds. Due to their size, speed, and winter weather, it is often difficult to judge distance when approaching the plow, so motorists should slow down immediately when approaching a plow from the rear to stay back a safe distance.

Be aware that, where there is one plow working, others may be nearby. The snow cloud created by one plow may obscure the presence of additional plows in adjacent lanes.

Find more plow safety information and winter driving tips at https://mdt.mt.gov/visionzero/people/winterdriving.aspx.