Reminder: It’s illegal to plow snow into roadways in Michigan

A reminder from MDOT: It’s illegal to plow snow into the road.

• Piling snow at the ends of driveways along highway shoulders and pushing snow across roads can create hazardous conditions.
• Piling or depositing snow that obstructs vision is a violation of Michigan’s Vehicle Code.
• Keeping sidewalks clear is important to help people walk safely and catch the bus.

Two main concerns are when residents and businesses pile snow at the ends of driveways along the highway shoulder, and when snow is pushed across the road, leaving snow or slush on the road surface.

The Michigan Vehicle Code prohibits “the obstruction of safety vision by removal or deposit of snow, ice, or slush.” This includes the end of driveways, where banked snow can reduce visibility for vehicles trying to enter the roadway.

Leaving a trail of snow on the pavement while plowing across the road also can cause problems. The snow can become packed and create ridges on the road, or, as temperatures change, the area can become icy.