DOT

 Iowa drivers set a record on Wednesday: the highest number of Iowa DOT snowplows hit in a single day, according to the Iowa DOT.

The agency says 15 snowplows were while trying to clear the snow. The previous record was nine in one day.

“People are getting hurt. Equipment is getting broken and we can’t keep the roads clear, which ends up having more people get hurt. So, you know, its just, we need people to slow down.” Iowa State Patrol Trooper Bob Conrad said.

It snowed pretty much all day Wednesday in some areas and dropped up to 8-11 inches of snow in eastern Iowa. Snow is expected Friday night and Saturday as well.

So far this year, 25 DOT snowplows have been hit by vehicles. The average for one winter is 32 crashes with the record-high being in 2019 when there 47 incidents

While crashes happened all over the state, seven took place on Interstate 80 .

Iowa DOT tips for driving safely around snowplows:

• Don’t crowd the plow: Maintenance vehicles plow far and wide, have big blind spots, and turn and exit the road frequently. The front plow extends several feet in front of the truck and may cross the centerline and shoulders during plowing operations.
• Never pass on the shoulder-side of a plow: Operators are trained to move snow to the shoulder. It’s safer to hang back; plows can be tricky to maneuver around.
• Watch for wing blades: These side blades mounted on either side of a truck can be hard to spot under blowing snow.
• Don’t tailgate or stop too close behind snowplows: Snowplows are usually spreading deicing materials from the back of the truck. They may need to stop or take evasive action to avoid stranded vehicles. If following a snowplow, stay behind it or use extreme caution when passing. The road behind a snowplow will be safer to drive on.
• Don’t travel beside a plow for long periods: When plowing through a snowdrift or packed snow, the impact can move the truck sideways and can create a cloud of snow that can reduce your visibility to zero in less time than you can react.
• Move as far away from the centerline of the pavement: When meeting a snowplow on a two-lane road, move to the right of the centerline to give them more room.
• Allow plenty of room if passing: If passing is absolutely necessary, identify a very large opening, and don’t cut in too quickly. Operators will pull over periodically to let vehicles pass.
• Use your headlights: Snowplow operators can more easily spot approaching vehicles in their mirrors when drivers turn on their headlights.