SNOWPLOW DISTANCE S.B. 465:
ANALYSIS AS ENACTED
Senate Bill 465 (as enacted) PUBLIC ACT 72 of 2024
Sponsor: Senator Sam Singh
Senate Committee: Transportation and Infrastructure
House Committee: Transportation, Mobility and Infrastructure
Date Completed: 1-10-25
RATIONALE
According to testimony before the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, worsening winter conditions have led to an increase in the number of traffic accidents between snow plows and personal vehicles. These accidents result from a variety of factors, including poor visibility and icy roads, which may make it difficult for a driver to brake in time to avoid a collision. Accordingly, some suggested that a driver be required to maintain a certain distance from an active snowplow.
CONTENT
The bill amended the Michigan Vehicle Code to require the operator of a vehicle to maintain a distance of 200 feet from a snowplow when moving. It also prescribes a civil infraction for a violation of the distances.
This requirement does not apply to the operator of a vehicle legally overtaking or passing a snowplow. Additionally, if a snowplow stops at or in an intersection and the operator of a vehicle that is not a snowplow approaches it from the rear, the operator of the vehicle must stop at least 20 feet from the snowplow.
The bill took effect July 8, 2024.
MCL 257.643b
ARGUMENTS
(Please note: The arguments contained in this analysis originate from sources outside the Senate Fiscal Agency. The Senate Fiscal Agency neither supports nor opposes legislation.)
Supporting Argument
The bill increases the safety of Michigan's drivers during winter. Snowplows are heavy and often drive 20 to 30 miles per hour slower than other drivers.[1] As a result, accidents involving snowplows can be serious, such as an incident in 2023 when an ambulance clipped a stopped snowplow and flipped.[2] In 2021, there were 20 crashes involving a snowplow and, in 2022, 19.[3] Snowy and icy conditions decrease traction on the road, making it difficult for a car to brake. According to testimony before the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, it takes a driver going 55 miles an hour 209 feet to stop and a driver going 35 miles an hour 90 feet. Additionally, accidents involving snowplows not only endanger drivers but equipment. A snowplow damaged in an accident may be unfit for operation, causin
service disruptions. Requiring drivers to maintain a minimum of 200 feet from a snowplow increases the safety cushion between vehicles, giving drivers enough time to slow and avoid dangerous collisions.
Legislative Analyst: Abby Schneider
FISCAL IMPACT
Due to the fine for the civil infraction, the bill may increase revenue for the State and local governmental units.
This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan Senate staff for use by the Senate in its deliberations and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.
[1] Tollefson, Byron, "Bill would require drivers to stay 200 feet from snowplows", WLNS 6 News, February 15, 2024.
[2] Ruble, Kayla, "Ambulance crashes into MDOT plow in Kalamazoo County", The Detroit News, March 10, 2023.
[3] Tollefson, "Bill would require drivers to stay 200 feet from snowplows".