A semi-truck driver was cited for unsafe passing after colliding with a Grant County Highway Department snow plow on Highway 61 near Fennimore on Wednesday morning, February 12. No injuries were reported, but the incident has prompted renewed warnings from authorities about Wisconsin laws governing winter road maintenance safety.

At approximately 9:30 a.m., a 2019 Western Star snow plow—equipped with activated maintenance lights—was clearing the northbound lanes of Highway 61 in Liberty Township. Occupying the center lane of the three-lane highway, the plow was followed by multiple vehicles, including a 2003 Kenworth tractor-trailer driven by Kendon Kropf, 36, of Blue River.

According to the Grant County Sheriff’s Office, Kropf overtook three vehicles in the right lane before attempting to pass the snow plow. During the maneuver, the semi’s trailer struck the plow’s extended passenger-side wing, which was actively clearing the northbound “slow lane.” The collision caused minor damage to the plow’s wing and the semi’s rear trailer tires. Both vehicles remained operational and were driven from the scene.

Kropf was cited for Unsafe Passing on the Right under Wisconsin Statute 346.915, which mandates minimum following distances behind snow plows engaged in winter maintenance. The law requires:

• 200 feet on roads with posted speed limits over 35 mph.
• 75 feet on roads with speed limits of 35 mph or less.

Sheriff’s deputies emphasized the statute’s critical role in preventing accidents during hazardous winter conditions. “Snow plows have reduced visibility and often operate in dynamic traffic environments,” a spokesperson stated. “Drivers must maintain safe distances and avoid risky maneuvers to protect both crews and motorists.”

Authorities confirmed no injuries resulted from the crash. The incident serves as a timely reminder for motorists to review winter driving laws and prioritize caution during Wisconsin’s harsh winter months.

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By [DIP Staff ], Dubuque In Pursuit News
February 13, 2025