Firsthand look at snow plow issues

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - Snow plow drivers were out in droves overnight and Wednesday.

Crews said Wednesday's snowfall isn't as bad as previous years, but it's still important to keep the roads clear.

We went out to get a first hand experience to see what issues they face.

Jeff Crabill’s day started early. So early, in fact, it began at 11:00 p.m. the night before.   

Jeff is a snow plow driver for the Terre Haute Street Department.   

To get a better idea of what he and the other drivers go through, we decided to ride along while they clear the streets during this winter’s first major snowfall.

Jeff has been doing this for almost 17 years.   

He's seen a lot of crazy winter weather in his time, which helps him prepare for elements like this.

“This morning, I got out east out there, by the cemetery, couldn’t see twenty feet in front of me. And it’s going to be that way when we get out there now,” said Jeff.    

Jeff admits this weather isn't nearly as bad as the ice storm or blizzards from years prior, but it's still nothing to sneeze at, because the snowfall is consistent.   

“I’ll make one pass, probably down one side and you won’t even be able to tell I did it when I come back on the other side,” said Jeff.

And even though the conditions aren’t the worst he’s seen, Jeff said it is to do his job when the community doesn't realize the hazards he faces.

“People not driving with their headlights on, crowding the plow truck, thinking we can stop on a dime,” said Jeff. “Stay behind us instead of trying to pass us. Let us do what we need to do.”

Jeff said the winter weather this week isn't anything they can't handle, but wants to remind people to be patient as they’re facing some of the same struggles everyone is in this economy.

“We need twice the trucks and twice the people, but we don’t have the money to do it. Just have to deal with what we got,” said Jeff.   

Crews ask that drivers keep a sharp eye and be careful as they drive for everyone's safety.