Crash in Upper Franconia: Snow Plow Causes Six-Figure Damage and Injury
Last Saturday afternoon, a snow plow in Upper Franconia veered into the opposite lane, smashing into a car and pushing it 50 meters along a crash barrier. The accident, which occurred on the district road near Weißenstadt (Wunsiedel district, Fichtelgebirge), resulted in extensive damage and a slight injury to the car's driver. Meanwhile, the driver of the snow plow escaped unscathed, having lost control in a bend on the snow-covered road.
Factors contributing to such accidents are often numerous, including the driver’s behavior, weather conditions, road attributes, and vehicle preparation.
Driver Mistakes:
Distraction
Regrettably, many drivers are engrossed in their devices or otherwise distracted, failing to recognize the impending threat and often causing rear-end collisions or sideswipes.
Speed
Neglecting to slow down when approaching snowplows can lead to fender benders: Snowplows travel at a modest pace, between 10 to 35 miles per hour, and their tire-churned snow creates a cloud that obstructs vision.
Follow Distance
Tailgaters and those who fail to observe an adequate following distance increase the risk of accidents. Snowplows may suddenly have to halt or deviate unexpectedly, posing a hazard to those who adhere too closely.
Adverse Weather Conditions:
Reduced Visibility
The cloud of snow generated by snowplows diminishes drivers' sightlines, impeding their ability to anticipate obstacles and potential dangers. Combined with snowfall, this can sabotage the safest driving-provided visibility is compromised.
Slippery Road Surfaces
Snow and ice on the roadway drastically reduce traction, making braking and steering difficult. Consequently, cars may lose control, potentially leading to a disastrous outcome.
Influx in High-Traffic Areas:
Accidents are particularly common on interstates, multi-lane U.S. and state highways, and other heavily-trafficked locations. The I-80 corridor in Iowa, for example, experienced numerous incidents during the February 12 snowstorm.
Advancing Winter Driving Techniques:
Safe Following Distance
To prevent snowplow-induced accidents, drivers should maintain a comfortable space between their vehicle and the snowplow, allowing for abrupt stops or evasive maneuvers.
Speed Regulation
Adjust your speed to the conditions, heeding snowplows deploying deicing compounds and the reduced visibility that may compromise your capacity to halt on a dime.
Situational Awareness
Be aware of your surroundings and heed weather advisories and road conditions. Overlooking warnings and pressing on can result in terrifying circumstances.
By cultivating knowledge about these factors and abiding by these safety suggestions, drivers can reduce the likelihood of snowplow mishaps and guarantee safer winter driving experiences.
