WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
WGVU Public Media has reported that legislation recently approved by the state senate would require motorists to stay at least 200 feet from snow plows actively engaged in road-clearing practices.
Jerry Byrne, with the Kent County Road Commission, said the new bill is not necessarily about enforcement, but about changing driver behavior and keeping everyone safe.
Byrne says that while 200 feet, or about the length of 12 cars, seems like a large berth to give snowplows, in adverse weather conditions, it’s necessary.
If passed, the law would still allow drivers to pass a snowplow on the left but would require them to stay at least 20 feet back from a snowplow stopped at an intersection so the plow could back up if needed.
The bill now goes to a House committee, where it will need to be approved before reaching the governor’s desk.
It is exactly about enforcement and the fines they will impose.
There are already traffic laws covering driving for road and weather conditions.
But by passing this law, they profit from another layer of fines.
How do you legally judge 200 feet, about 12 car lengths, if unmarked? In a blizzard?