Winter storms can be hazardous, and plowing snow further amplifies this risk. Therefore, you need to ensure you have sufficient insurance to cover yourself during such situations.
On multi-lane highways, keep at least 25 feet (three car lengths) behind snowplows and salt/sand trucks to allow them to focus on driving safely without becoming distracted by your vehicle. They need to remain focused on their task at hand if they cannot see you clearly in time.
Know Your Equipment
As winter storms approach, be mindful of warning messages (winter storm watch–an impending storm is possible within 36 hours; winter storm warning–considerable snow, ice and wind is expected within several hours; blizzard warning – wind driven snow with reduced visibility to under one quarter mile). Check that all equipment is serviced and equipped with rock salt or kitty litter as traction aids on walkways; plan travel only during daytime hours on major roadways if at all necessary.
Keep a safe distance from snow removal equipment, as their size and lack of visibility could cause them to lose control and lose direction. Be wary that these vehicles could also be dispensing salt or sand that could spread onto your vehicle and spray on its surface if close enough; at a minimum four car lengths distance. This rule is especially relevant when operating on highways where vehicles with wing plows may be present.
Know Your Routes
Winter storms bring with them many perilous conditions, such as freezing rain, snow/sleet/ice accumulations, high winds and very low temperatures. Transportation accidents are the leading cause of winter storm-related injuries and deaths; therefore it is best to minimize travel whenever possible and observe road closures and detours closely as well as tuning into local radio or TV broadcasts for updates and instructions.
If you must drive, ensure your car is equipped with essential supplies such as extra blankets, shovels, battery booster cables, emergency food/water and brightly-colored cloth to wave in case you become stranded. When approaching snowplow operators with limited visibility they could spray salt or deicing materials that can damage vehicles; avoid passing these vehicles at all costs and always observe their amber strobe lights for potential hazard warnings and maintain a safe following distance.
Know Your Insurance
Winter storms can range from moderate snowfall in a few hours to blinding wind-driven snow for several days, along with freezing rain/sleet, strong winds, low temperatures and hazardous coastal flooding. To remain safe during these storms, avoid travel. If necessary, travel only during daylight hours on major roads; be ready for reduced visibility conditions.
Once a snow emergency is declared by the City’s managing director, parking on streets marked with snow emergencies signs is prohibited and vehicles left there will be ticketed and towed; SEPTA should also be consulted regarding service detours.