Driver Training Solutions

Snow removal training

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 320 fatal traffic crashes and 22,293 injury-causing vehicle accidents during snowy conditions in 2023. While most people choose not to drive in such conditions, snowplow drivers must. Learn how a snow removal training program can help snow removal drivers be efficient and safe.

A snow plow driving through snow

Key challenges and solutions for snow removal training

Challenge: Navigating snow and icy roads

The most significant challenge snow removal drivers face is driving on roads during and right after snowstorms. Storms can create slick roads, poor visibility and inadequate lighting, which can cause driver errors. Such conditions not only affect their driving abilities but can also prevent them from doing their job properly if they are not trained for working in adverse weather.

Solution: Train in adverse conditions

Using a snowplow driver training simulator allows drivers to practice driving and operating in adverse conditions in a safe environment. Our simulator mimics real plowing vehicles. Within a scenario, you can adjust lighting, weather and road surfaces, creating an experience where drivers really feel as if they are behind the wheel without any of the danger. 


Challenge: Preventing liability issues

Snow removal drivers are vulnerable to liability. One wrong move, such as scraping a car, hitting equipment in a parking lot or damaging a home, can make them liable for the damage. Even not removing all the snow can lead to a slip-and-fall case against your company . The litigation process is costly and takes a lot of time away from your business.

Solution: Have seasoned professionals train your team

You can prevent such legal problems by finding experienced professionals to teach your drivers. Our instructors, using our simulator, will demonstrate how to maneuver the arm, which attachments to use and how to operate in tight spaces. Our simulator features the physical snow removal tools for practice, which develop muscle memory for when drivers are on the road. 


Challenge: Training in time for the first snowstorm

It is difficult to predict when the winter season will officially start, as the weather can be unpredictable each year. The erratic schedule makes it challenging for snow removal companies to organize training for new drivers. At times, they are taken by surprise, and snow has already fallen.

Solution: Immediate and on-premise training sessions

Driver Training Solutions can train your fleet in a couple of hours with our snow removal training program. We will deliver both simulators and instructors to your company and run the entire course. Over the course of the session, drivers will develop the skills and muscle memory needed to handle the first snowfall, whether it’s happening in a week or a couple of days. 


Learn more about simulated training for snow removal. Contact our representatives for a consultation. 

Why choose Driver Training Solutions for snow removal driving training?

Bring the simulator to you

Driver Training Solutions brings the classroom to you with official instructors and a trailer equipped with two snowplow driver training simulators. Multiple trailers can be delivered if you have a large fleet. Coming to you saves you money and ensures you do not have to retrofit your space to accommodate simulators permanently.

Train multiple drivers at once

Our simulators can be networked together, allowing two users to try the same scenario simultaneously. This speeds up the training process, reducing wait time for individual drivers and entire fleets. Together, users can explore maneuvers such as tandem plowing to prepare for working as a team.

Practice with real tools

Our simulators utilize plow attachments and levers for drivers to use during the simulation. This will show users what configuration to use for the type of snow and removal area. Our system mimics the real weight of these tools so drivers feel more prepared to employ them on the job.

Experience real road conditions safely

Using proprietary tire simulation technology, our simulators mimic slippery and icy roads in scenarios. Users can lose control of their simulated vehicle in these experiences, forcing them to learn how to drive more carefully. Other adjustments that can be made to create additional adverse situations include weather conditions, lighting and visibility.

Driver training courses

Our training course covers all aspects of driving that snowplow operators need to know to stay safe on the road and do their job efficiently. All our trainers are professionals with real experience, so they know exactly what needs to be taught. 

Curriculum includes: Winter driving, SMART defensive driving, close-quarters maneuvering, hazard management, commentary driving, complex controls & multi-component operation, adverse conditions driving, decision driving, distracted driving, lane changes, negotiating intersections, rollover prevention, fuel management, fatigue management, emergency maneuvers and pre-trip inspections.

A visual of Driver Training Solutions driving simulation technology

Frequently asked questions

Defensive driving, hazard management and how to use the right amount of de-icing tools are included in a municipal snow and ice driver training program.
Winter driving refreshers should be held annually for public work crews. This ensures they have not forgotten essential driving skills after a year of not using them.
Scenarios that should be covered in snowplow operator training should include how to properly adjust the plow arm, what length plow is needed for different removal areas, defensive driving and navigating slick roads.
Driver errors that cause the most winter claims in municipal snow operations include accidents due to driver fatigue, improperly clearing snow and ice away and collisions due to the weather. Training can address these three issues by allowing drivers to practice in a safe environment and develop the skills and muscle memory to do their job properly.
Public work teams can standardize winter driver training across districts and shifts by creating a single training course for everyone to follow. In addition, there should be an established safety policy already in place for everyone to follow.

Build muscle memory in your snowplow operators so they can navigate snowy streets with ease

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