Winter driving tips

It is recommended that you give working snowplows at least 200 feet of space. Photo: Utah Department of Public Safety

PARK CITY, Utah — With major snow expected later this week, it’s a good time to prepare for winter driving conditions.

Below are some great resources:

Download the Utah Department Of Transportation (UDOT) traffic app, along with real-time data, it shows precisely where snowplows are and where they’ve been over the last half hour.

The NOAA website shows current weather conditions, forecasts, warnings, and advisories.

TownLift has embedded UDOT traffic cams to show live feeds from around the area, including Parleys Summit and the Cottonwoods.

Learn about the UDOT Cottonwood Canyons sticker program.

Driving tips

• Give yourself more time.
• Slow down! People driving too fast is the main cause of crashes in the winter.
• Avoid quick stops, starts, and turns. Accelerate slowly, brake gently, and don’t turn quickly.
• Increase your following distance. You need more distance to safely stop when it’s wet, snowy, or icy.
• Use extra caution when changing lanes. Snow and slush can form ridges between lanes that can be really slippery and can force you to lose control — avoid them if possible.
• Don’t use cruise control.
• Carry items in your vehicle to help in an emergency (learn more).

Snowplows

• Don’t crowd the plow! Don’t tailgate snowplows on the road and try not to pass. If you really have to pass, use extreme caution and never pass on the right.
• Stay back at least 200 feet. Following a plow too closely can result in a broken windshield or damaged paint.
• You can report an issue with a snowplow by calling 801-965-4000 or emailing srwebmail@utah.gov

Learn more on the Utah Department of Public Safety’s website.