Don’t Plow Snow into the Road

The Washtenaw County Road Commission (WCRC) is asking residents and local businesses not to push excess snow into or across roadways. While it may seem convenient to plow snow into or along roadsides, when that snow freezes and hardens onto the road surface, it can pose a serious hazard to motorists and damage snow plow equipment. For this reason, Michigan law specifically prohibits shoveling or plowing snow onto or across roadways.

“Pushing snow into roadways creates a hazard for motorists and makes it challenging for WCRC to keep roads clear of snow and ice,” said Jim Harmon, Director of Operations at the Washtenaw County Road Commission. “We need businesses and residents to do their part this winter and comply with these laws to help keep roads safe.”

While clearing your driveway is not a crime, the way you clear it can be. The Michigan Vehicle Code section 257.677a prohibits, “the obstruction of safety vision by removal or deposit of snow, ice, or slush.” This includes placing snow at the end of driveways, where banked snow can reduce visibility for vehicles trying to enter the roadway. The Michigan Vehicle Code also prohibits the depositing of snow, ice or slush into or across the roadway.

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by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and founder of the Manchester Mirror.