MnDOT’s Minnesota Snowplow and Safety Simulator Training for Local Agencies returns in early 2024. The training uses state-of-the-art technology to prepare snowplow drivers to expect the unexpected and deal with the challenges of adverse winter driving
and road conditions.
The simulator provides attendees with a basic plow cab control system with everything from a 15-speed max manual transmission to an automatic transmission. The plow and wing are operated with a touch screen. Like a real plow, the simulator has a steering wheel, fans, horn, turn indicators, mirror and seat adjustments, interactive dashboard, and other controls. The steering wheel is responsive and the sounds are realistic. The view screen gives a 180-degree view with realistic graphics.
Trainers use the snowplow simulator to create an unlimited combination of hazardous situations involving weather, traffic, and road conditions that a driver may rarely encounter in the real world. This prepares the snowplow driver to handle potentially
dangerous situations without being involved in an actual accident.
The training, which is tailored to local agencies, will consist of a four-hour class divided into three parts: a PowerPoint presentation, a self-paced computer-based training, and simulator driving performance.
All snowplow drivers, regardless of years of experience, can benefit from training in the simulator. This includes anyone who has snowplowing as part of their position description or who plows as a seasonal or temporary driver.
This training is presented by MnDOT and hosted by MnLTAP.
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