Back Off or Pay Up: Michigan’s New Snow Plow Law

While you were enjoying days on the beach this past summer, the Michigan legislature passed a law to keep you from getting too cozy with snowplows. This isn't just another run-of-the-mill traffic violation, either; this one will hurt your wallet if you get caught.

RELATED: The 5 Deadliest Roads in the State of Michigan

Here's the deal: according to the new law, if you follow a snowplow within 200 feet, you could be out $100. That's right, get too close, and you get a fine and a civil infraction. Please don't get too nervous; you are allowed within 20 feet of a plow when they are not in service and at intersections when the vehicle is stopped.

Backoff! These Michigan Snowplows Are Working

Why the new law? 114 crashes involving these monster snow throwers over the last five years weren't enough to remind us that snowplows need room to do their thing. According to MLive, 20 of those crashes occurred in 2021 alone.

Enter Michigan's lawmakers, who stepped in to ensure that when you see that giant truck tossing salt, sand, and mountains of snow into the air, back off. Or pay up.

Why the Michigan's New Snowplow Law Was Passed

This law is all about safety—Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed it to give drivers a better chance of stopping in icy conditions. After all, snow plows are doing the heavy lifting so we can stay on the road and off the news.

RELATED: 10-Mile Stretch of Michigan Highway Among Deadliest in America

So, next time you see that plow? Take a breath, chill out, and give them the room they need. And yes, this applies to plows from the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), counties, and cities because plow equality is important.