January Law of the Month: Safe winter driving

Winter is officially here, and with that comes the potential for dangerous road conditions. Snow, sleet, and ice make it harder to control and stop your vehicle. From Oct. 2023 to May 2024, winter weather contributed to more than 11,000 crashes in Wisconsin, resulting in 9 fatalities and over 2,000 injuries.

The Wisconsin State Patrol’s January Law of the Month focuses on safe winter driving.
“Many of us look forward to the beauty and adventure of a new season, but we can’t deny that winter weather can also create treacherous road conditions,” Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan said. “It’s always best to stay off the roads in slippery conditions. If you must drive, be sure to avoid distractions, allow additional time to get to your destination, and give fellow motorists and snowplows extra space.”

Drive a reasonable speed to prevent crashes

State law requires drivers to travel at speeds that are reasonable and prudent for current conditions. Speed limits are set for when roads are clear and dry, so it may be too dangerous to drive at the posted speed limit in slippery conditions. Many winter crashes and slide offs are caused by drivers going too fast in hazardous conditions.

Give snowplows space to work

Snowplow drivers work long hours to clear nearly 115,000 miles of roads across Wisconsin, so it’s important for everyone to give them the space they need to get the job done.
When approaching a snowplow that’s clearing ice or snow, or laying salt or sand, state law requires drivers to stay at least:
• 200 feet back on a highway with a speed limit more than 35 miles per hour
• 75 feet back on a road with a slower speed limit

Road conditions ahead of a plow are likely worse, so drivers should use extra caution if passing a snowplow. Plow drivers have limited visibility and the vehicles often create a cloud of snow that can obscure visibility for all.

Prepare for winter driving

It is best to stay off the roads during severe winter weather to eliminate the risk of a crash and keep the roads clear for first responders and snowplow drivers. If you must head out, always prepare yourself and your vehicle for winter driving.

The State Patrol recommends the following winter driving tips:

• Clear snow and ice from vehicle windows, lights, roof, and hood. Snow and ice sliding off your roof or blowing off your hood can be dangerous.

• If you’re driving while it’s snowing, you’re required to turn your headlights on. The general rule is if you have your windshield wipers on, your headlights should be on too.
• Snow means slow. Allow extra travel time and following distance and reduce your speed during winter conditions.
• Avoid sudden braking or steering. Don’t be overconfident with 4WD or AWD. Remember that bridge decks and overpasses freeze up first.
• Avoid using cruise control in winter conditions.
• Buckle up and put your phone down while driving. Every trip, every time.
• Have a fully charged phone and an emergency kit in your vehicle.
• If you get stranded or slide off the road, stay buckled up in your vehicle and call for help. Getting out of the vehicle is very dangerous, especially in winter weather.

Know before you go

511 Wisconsin is a free resource that provides live updates on traffic and road conditions. Winter road condition categories were recently updated to better reflect current conditions on roads across the state. The categories are now: Normal, Partially Covered, Completely Covered, Travel Not Advised, and No Report. Stay informed with 511. If you must travel, know before you go. Download the 511 Wisconsin app, visit 511wi.gov, or call 511 to monitor conditions.