Snowplow hit near Inyan Kara on I-90 during morning run

SUNDANCE – A WYDOT snowplow was struck by a passenger car in the westbound lane of Interstate 90, milepost 170, during a mid-morning run on Feb. 19.

At about 9:45 a.m., a  WYDOT snowplow operator was plowing light, powdery snow in the passing lane of the interstate when a tandem belly dump truck proceeded to pass the plow on the right side. Following the belly dump was a small passenger car which chose to enter the passing lane to pass the belly dump only to find the snowplow. The passenger car collided with the sander and grazed the left side of the belly dump. Minimal damage was reported on all vehicles and no injuries were reported.   

“This is a prime example of why keeping a safe distance and clear line of sight is important when determining whether to pass a vehicle or not," said Sundance Area Maintenance Supervisor Brad Marchant. “We ask that you take extra precautions when passing any vehicle. One never knows what is in front of you in the other lane.” 

WYDOT strongly encourages all drivers to increase their following distances when snow removal operations are occuring on highways. Although motorists may experience good visibility and passing conditions at first, conditions may quickly deteriorate. 

WYDOT plow operators are experiencing high workloads while performing their duties. The changing snow conditions and lack of visible pavement markings could mean they are unable to maintain their lane of travel. Give the plow room to improve the road conditions for all involved. 
  
For information about this news release, contact WYDOT District 4 public information specialist Laura Dalles at (307) 752-3022.

For the latest road conditions, visit WYDOT's 511 website, call 5-1-1 or download the Wyoming 511 app.

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