Drivers who pass snow plows face fines, penalties: OPP

OPP is reminding drivers they could be fined from $100 to $1,000 for passing a working snow plow.

“How many times have we witnessed an impatient driver pass a snow plow and nearly cause a collision," a news release said.

The province passed a law in 2023 making it illegal to pass when a snow plow is clearing a road or highway. The law was created to reduce unsafe passing manoeuvres and collisions.

The law states drivers should not pass snow plows working in echelon formation on multi-lane roads or highways with a speed limit of 80 km/h or more.

Also, drivers can only pass if the lane is completely clear of any part of the plow, including its blade.

Besides the aforementioned fine, drivers could also be charged with stunt driving, careless driving and dangerous driving. As well, their licence could be suspended and their vehicle impounded, OPP said.