ITD urges caution around snowplows

The Idaho Transportation Department is cautioning drivers to give snowplows adequate clearance while operating on public roads.  

According to a Facebook post released by the department, officials indicated an incident that occurred Jan. 8, where an ITD truck was struck by a vehicle while clearing snow off a road. Officials note that the plow was not heavily damaged, and the operator was OK, but said the crash caused hourlong delays among drivers, responders and crew members.  

The post does not indicate where the incident occurred.  

ITD emphasized that drivers should not pass snowplows on the right, should maintain a following distance of at least 200 feet, and to slow down, stay alert and remain patient while traveling near winter maintenance equipment. 

This department noted that this was the second snowplow strike reported during the 2025-26 winter season.