It’s Not a Rodeo, It’s a ‘Roadeo’ — And It’s All About Snowplows

Sioux Falls Hosts Annual "Snowfighter Roadeo"

Here in Sioux Falls, we have a number of great rodeo events come through our city. But this time we're talking about a "Roadeo," and it was going on Wednesday (September 23) this past week.

Dakota News Now is reporting that South Dakota Department of Transportation employees competed in hands-on skill competitions during the "Snowfighter Roadeo".

Get our free mobile app

READ MORE: Great Bear Turns 60 & Is Getting Its Own Movie!

Craig Smith, the director of operations for the SD Department of Transportation, said it was a good way for their snowplow drivers to get back into that winter driving mode. He also indicated that the best way for drivers to learn was getting into the vehicles and driving them.

Prepare for Winter: Reminders from SDDOT Crews

The snowplow crews said that winter safety isn't just up to them, but also the rest of us on winter roads: "Drivers need to remember that snowplows can move much slower than traffic, and following too closely can lead to crashes"

Smith reiterated that they do see quite a few rear-end crashes in the wintertime because drivers have been following the snowplows too closely.

Something else that vehicle drivers need to be aware of is that visibility from inside the snowplows can be very limited. If you're following too closely, the plow driver may not see you in their mirrors. Also, if you can't see the snowplow's mirrors, then you are definitely following way too closely.

READ MORE: Forbes Gives 5-Star Ratings to Just 5 South Dakota Hospitals

SD Department of Transportation crews want to remind all winter drivers to slow down and give the plows plenty of room, check on conditions, and know what to expect when you hit the road.

The next two SDDOT Snowfighter Roadeos are happening in Rapid City and Pierre at the end of the month, with the top 5 drivers advancing to the statewide competition in Pierre.

Source: Dakota News Now