(WFRV) – Winter in Wisconsin for the 2025-2026 season has been relatively wild, with dangerously freezing temperatures and lengthy snowstorms, roads have been treacherous for most of the winter months for vehicles and snowplows alike.
As of early February 2026, 13 county highway department snowplows have been crashed into already, prompting the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) and the Wisconsin County Highway Association (WCHA) to issue a reminder on giving snowplows ample space on the roads.
All vehicles involved in reckless driving will be impounded under new GB ordinance
“Road and weather conditions can change quickly during Wisconsin winters and snowplow operators brave winter’s worst to keep our roads safe and passable,” WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman said. “We all want it to make it safely to our destination, so let’s take it slow on the road and please give space to snowplows.”
Courtesy of the Chippewa County Sheriff’s Office
Hudson Police Department
Courtesy of the Chippewa County Sheriff’s Office
Courtesy of the Chippewa County Sheriff’s Office
Officials say that among the 13 incidents, serious crashes involving snowplows have happened in Calumet, Marinette, Portage, Shawano, Waukesha, and Wood counties. It was noted that in most of those, the snowplows were hit from behind, forcing several snowplows to be out of service.
If snowplows are out of commission, officials say it reduces the county highway department’s ability to clear roads efficiently.
Four police officers in Wisconsin injured after being hit by stolen squad car
“Every time a snowplow is hit, it puts operators at risk and takes critical equipment off the road,” WCHA Executive Director Patrick Vander Sanden said. “These crashes are preventable. Drivers need to slow down, stay back, and be patient.”
According to WisDOT, drivers are reminded to:
- Watch the road ahead, avoid distractions, and leave room to brake, especially in slick conditions.
- Most traffic crashes in winter are caused by drivers going too fast for conditions.
- Posted speed limits apply when travel conditions are ideal.
- Slow down when roads are slick or visibility is reduced.
- Give space and stay at least 200 feet behind a working snowplow. If you can see the plow’s mirrors, the driver can see you.
- If you must pass a snowplow, be careful. Snowplows often create a cloud of snow that can obscure vision. Road conditions in front of the plow are likely worse.
- Don’t be overconfident if you operate a four-wheel or all-wheel-drive vehicle. Those vehicles still require a considerable distance to stop on slick roads.
- “Know before you go” with 511wi.gov or the free 511 Wisconsin mobile app to check road conditions, live video from traffic cameras, and possible incidents.
- During major winter storms, postpone or cancel your trip. Stranded motorists and vehicles become hazards that interfere with snow removal efforts.
WisDOT works closely with Wisconsin counties year-round to establish best practices and test new tools for safety and efficiency.
