Illinois reports 8 snow plow crashes in winter storm. Is it legal to pass them?
As metro-east road crews work around the clock to clear roads from the 8-plus inches of snowfall Belleville saw over the weekend, drivers will have increased interactions with snow plows.
The Illinois Department of Transportation has reported eight collisions involving snowplows across the state during the weekend’s winter storm, officials said in a Jan. 25 Facebook post. St. Clair County had a snow plow crash in 2025 involving a motorist who tried to pass the plow and hit it in the process.
Local snow accumulations from Winter Storm Fern aren’t expected to melt immediately. The National Weather Service’s seven-day forecast does not call for any days above freezing in Belleville, so plows will likely continue work in at least parts of the county throughout the week.
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-clearing vehicles.
Can you legally pass a working 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 told the News-Democrat in 2025.
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 too closely, as the road ahead of the plow has not been cleared.
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