Winter Road Heroes – Looking at Snowplow Safety

We all know the winter road conditions can present additional challenges but for some those challenges are greater than others.

When winter weather wreaks havoc on travel conditions, some of us feel the responsibility to take care of the excess snow. Whether you run a plow for a company or have one for your own personal use it is important to keep your truck, plow, those around you (and of course yourself) safe this winter by remembering these safety tips:

• Check Your Vehicle
  • Tire pressure, light signals, hydraulics/cracked welds, connections between the truck and plow, and your plow’s cutting edge
• Plan Ahead
  • Inspect work sites and mark all obstructions prior to plowing

Now, the items previously listed are all tasks that should be completed prior to starting any plow work, it is always best to get off on the right foot. 

Once you’ve checked the above items off your list you can get to work BUT while plowing there is another set of safety tips you should try to keep in mind:

• Go slow and avoid exceeding 15 mph while plowing
• Always wear your seat belt – if you hit something the vehicle may stop suddenly
• Determine where piled snow should be placed before you begin
• Make sure your vehicle is in motion prior to dropping your blade
• Always turn and monitor what is going on behind you while backing up – you should never rely on your mirrors

Snowplowing is a much needed resource and like most jobs where vehicles are being operated comes with its own set of risks.

If snow plowing is part of your operation, please consult with your agent to ensure that your plowing clients and your % of receipts for plowing fall within Pioneer’s eligibility.

If you are interested in reading a more detailed and in-depth version of this blog hop on over to our website: https://www.psmic.com/bro/snowplowsafety

Have any questions about what you just read? Please contact your Independent Insurance Agent or email us at socialmedia@psmic.com!