Wyoming Road Conditions and Winter Driving Flashcards

When following a WYDOT snowplow, the minimum safe following distance is:

Answer: At least 200 feet (approximately 4 car lengths)

You should maintain at least 200 feet behind a snowplow because blowing snow reduces visibility and sand or salt can damage your windshield.

High-altitude mountain passes in Wyoming can experience snowstorms in which months?

Answer: Any month of the year

Wyoming mountain passes can receive snow in any month of the year, so drivers should always be prepared for winter conditions.

If you see a WYDOT message board reading 'CHAIN LAW IN EFFECT,' what must you do?

Answer: Install tire chains or have snow-rated tires before proceeding

When the Chain Law is in effect, all vehicles must have approved traction devices or snow-rated tires to legally proceed.

What is the purpose of WYDOT's Avalanche Control Program on Wyoming highways?

Answer: To intentionally trigger avalanches when roads are closed so they don't occur unexpectedly when roads are open

WYDOT uses controlled avalanche releases to prevent surprise avalanches when the road is closed, ensuring safer conditions when it reopens.

When your vehicle gets stuck in snow on a Wyoming highway, you should:

Answer: Stay with your vehicle, run the engine sparingly for warmth, and signal for help

Staying with your vehicle keeps you sheltered; run the engine periodically for warmth and ensure the exhaust pipe is clear to avoid CO poisoning.

Wyoming law requires headlights to be used when driving in conditions that limit visibility to less than:

Answer: 1,000 feet

Wyoming law requires headlights whenever visibility is reduced to 1,000 feet or less due to weather or other conditions.