Simulations Aid Snowplow Drivers

The Minnesota Department of Transportation hopes a computer program will help snowplow drivers stay safe.

Operators spent Tuesday behind the wheel of a MnDOT simulator in a program that tested their ability to safely move on the road and avoid road hazards. They also began taking part in online courses that further evaluated their knowledge of the equipment.

Simulator conditions included both heavy snow and no snow, and drivers used a set of the plow’s full controls to navigate virtual streets.

The simulation event will continue through Wednesday before the state-of-the-art software gets relocated to Roseau, Minn., for more training.