Is it legal to pass a working snow plow on Illinois roads? Here’s what state police say
Road crews across southwest Illinois and statewide are working to clear snow and ice off the roads after the weekend’s winter storm, but is it legal to pass snow plows?
Snow is expected to stick around for a while as “arctic air has moved into the region,” according to the National Weather Service St. Louis office, and temperatures are forecast to remain below freezing through at least Friday, Jan. 10.
While areas north saw more than 8 inches of snow, the NWS reported Monday, Belleville saw slightly less, but enough accumulation to coat area roads.
While driving behind a snow plow could slow you down, you should take safety into account when deciding whether to pass one, officials recommend.
Here’s what the Illinois State Police said about passing snow plows.
Can you legally pass a snow plow in Illinois?
It is not illegal to pass a snowplow in Illinois, but “it’s not recommended and can be dangerous,” Illinois State Police trooper Duane Chappell wrote in a Jan. 6 email to the News-Democrat.
ISP officials recommend drivers follow these best practices in wintry conditions, according to Chappell:
“Be cautious: Snow plows can throw objects that can make it hard to see. The driver in the plow may have limited visibility and reaction time.
Give them space: Don’t crowd the plow. Conditions in front of the plow are usually worse than behind it.
Drive slowly: Take your time and drive safely for the conditions.
Avoid passing other vehicles: If you must pass, avoid passing other vehicles, especially snow plows.
Obey the Move Over law: When approaching a stopped vehicle, slow down and change lanes.”
Officials with the Illinois Department of Transportation also advise against passing a snow plow, as the road ahead of the plow has not been cleared.
Do you have a question about the weather in Illinois for our service journalism team? We’d like to hear from you. Fill out our Metro-east Matters form below.
This story was originally published January 7, 2025 at 9:59 AM.
