What should you be cautious of when driving near snowplows?

Being cautious around snowplows is crucial for safety, and understanding why the correct answer highlights the potential dangers helps emphasize the importance of awareness when driving near these vehicles. Snowplows are large, heavy vehicles designed to clear snow and ice from roadways. They often operate with a plow blade extended, which can obstruct visibility and create a hazardous environment for nearby drivers.

When snowplows are in operation, they may use sanding material to increase traction on icy roads. This material can be thrown from the plow at high speeds, potentially hitting nearby vehicles or pedestrians. Additionally, because snowplows have a large blind spot directly behind them, the operators may not be able to see vehicles tailgating or approaching closely from that position. This poses a risk of accidents if other drivers are not aware of the snowplow's limited visibility and the potential for debris being thrown into the path of other vehicles.

Understanding these factors helps drivers recognize the importance of keeping a safe distance from snowplows and remaining alert to the potential hazards they pose on the road. It supports safe driving practices, especially in winter weather conditions.