Snow plows are often taken for granted. When we are in a hurry to get somewhere, they are big, slow and in the way.
Of course, without snow plows, we would barely be able to function as a society here in the frozen North.
Can you legally pass a snow plow in Alberta?
You can legally pass a snow plow in Alberta, but it is dangerous and highly recommended that you don’t.
There is no current law forbidding you from overtaking a snow plow where passing is permitted and it is deemed safe to do so.
Even though passing (or overtaking) a snow plow is technically legal, here are some things to consider:
- Snow plows must pull over to the side every 5km to 8km, or where safe tondo so. It is best for everyone’s safety to wait.
- An snow plow that is actively plowing can create huge clouds of snow. This can restrict your vision and the vision of oncoming drivers.
- Snow plowing can cause other debris, such as rocks, to kick up into the air. This can be dangerous and cause vehicle damage.
This is also a good reason to not follow too closely. Snow plows have signs on the back with a safe following distance.
We all get in a rush sometimes, and nobody likes being stuck behind a slow poke.
In the case of a snow plow, we know for sure there will be an opportunity to pass safely at some point soon. Keep a safe distance and wait for the next chance.
If you insist on passing, do it safely and where permissible by law. Give yourself more time and distance to make the manoeuvre than you typically would. It is technically legal.
In Summary
- There is no law against passing or overtaking a snow plow in Alberta. As long as you do it safely and where passing is permissible.
- While it is legal, it is dangerous and not recommended.
- Snow plows pull over frequently. It is best practice to be patient and wait for the snow plow to pull over.
