Editorial: We owe it to plow operators to be more careful on the roads
Our winter has felt very un-winter like. That is until last week.
Iowa got its first major snowfall of the season. And as so often happens, we saw an increased number of accidents.
Of course, we saw the typical accidents that are common when roads are snow covered and icy. But we also saw a record number of accidents involving snowplows. Fifteen snowplows were struck by cars on Wednesday. A few days later, this number had grown to 26.
While we accept some slipping and sliding during winter weather, the sheer number of snowplow-related accidents is shocking. This smacks of careless driving and motorists simply going too fast for the conditions. This is unnecessary and it's putting lives at risk.
Living in a winter climate, we take our snow removal for granted at times. Every time we get snow, an army of snowplows blankets the area, pushing snow, and applying salt and sand to prevent icy conditions. And aren't we lucky. Because of their swift work, we are able to make it to work, to get to a doctor's appointment or simply get groceries. The work of our snowplow operators allows EMS vehicles the ability to quickly respond to emergencies.
But for these public servants to really do their job effectively, they need our help. As drivers, it's imperative we allow our snowplow operators the time and space to do their work. Slow down. Approach them with caution. Look, it's always best to avoid travel when winter weather turns severe. But if you do have to travel, be safe.
Give our plow operators a wide berth. They're serving us. Our best way to say thank you is to make it easier for them to do their jobs, efficiently, and safely.
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