02/25/2026
Today’s safety message talks about what happens after a heavy snowfall. It says, “Roads shrink after snowfalls”.
Following a heavy snowfall, roadway conditions can change significantly—posing serious safety risks for professional bus operators and other road users. One of the most critical changes is the reduction in roadway width. Snow accumulation at the edges of streets, combined with snow banks created by plowing operations, often encroaches on traffic lanes. In many cases, a standard lane can be narrowed by several feet, limiting maneuverability and increasing the risk of side-swipes, curb strikes, and conflicts with pedestrians and cyclists.
Additionally, sidewalks may be impassable due to heavy snow, forcing pedestrians—including children, elderly individuals, and those with mobility devices—to walk in the road. Vehicle Operators should anticipate pedestrian presence on or near the roadway, especially in residential areas and business districts. Be prepared for sudden movements into the roadway by individuals attempting to navigate around snowbanks or icy patches.
Snowplows, while essential for clearing primary travel lanes, can unintentionally create visibility hazards by building large snowbanks at intersections, driveways, and bus stops. These snowbanks can obscure sight lines and conceal pedestrians or smaller vehicles.
Key Safety Guidelines:
Reduce Speed: Always drive at speeds appropriate for reduced lane widths and limited visibility.
Increase Following Distance: Allow extra space between your vehicle and others to account for reduced stopping ability on icy or snow-covered roads.
Use Caution: Expect obstructed views and hidden pedestrians behind snowbanks.
Be Alert for Unexpected Pedestrian Movement: Slow down in areas where sidewalks are buried, and anticipate foot traffic in the roadway.
Maintain Awareness of Roadway Limits: Recognize that snow accumulation can shrink usable lane space, particularly near curbs and shoulders.
According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), winter road conditions contribute to over 1,300 fatalities and more than 116,800 injuries each year. Vehicle Operators play a critical role in preventing these incidents by adjusting driving behavior and maintaining vigilance during post-storm operations.
Stay alert. Stay safe.
