When the temperatures start to drop, it’s crucial that drivers stay alert and safe on the road. Driving in harsh weather conditions is difficult, and it requires practice to do it safely.
There are several elements to consider when driving on snow- or ice-covered roads, such as less traction, low visibility, the need for additional stopping distance, and the unpredictability of everyone else driving alongside you. The best truck drivers know when to stop driving and wait it out for their own safety and the safety of others.
It goes without saying that special skills are required to drive a tractor trailer regardless of the weather. With the added dangers of hazardous road conditions, those special skills (along with staying extremely alert) are crucial to safety. Most experienced drivers will already be familiar with many of these practices, but for those new to the industry – or those considering getting into it – these should prove immensely beneficial.
Winter Driving Tips
When driving in wintry conditions, it’s important to check weather and road conditions before heading out. Cold weather can introduce everything from ice, snow, wind, and whiteout conditions, making driving hazardous. Here are 8 winter driving tips to be aware of:
#1 Inspect your truck before hitting the road
Taking a few extra minutes to check and double check the following will prevent potential issues and make the trip smoother. In addition to checking fluid levels and tire pressure, verify that your headlights, brake lights, and turn signals are working properly. It’s also important to remove snow and ice from windows, lights, and mirrors, and be sure the windows are defrosted.
#2 Check the weather
Before heading out, check the weather forecast and road conditions for your route. Whenever possible, have a conversation with other drivers to get firsthand information and advice.
#3 Allow additional stopping time
Give yourself extra space when slowing down and stopping at intersections, exit ramps, stop signs, and traffic lights. Depending on how much snow or ice is on the roads, it may take up to 10 times more stopping distance.
#4 Watch out for other drivers
Putting more distance between you and other drivers will allow for safer reactions on slippery roads.
#5 Be mindful of black ice
Watch out for black ice, a thin transparent layer of ice that often develops in shady areas or bridges. Keep in mind that if ice is on your windshield, conditions are favorable for black ice.
#6 Take it slow and smooth
When accelerating or decelerating, do so gradually and with caution. Abrupt movements on slick pavement are more likely to cause a trailer jackknife.
#7 Observe your surroundings
In addition to watching out for other drivers, be aware of everything around you. And, if you notice stranded vehicles alongside the road or medians, take it as a warning sign to pull over.
#8 Drive at a safe speed, regardless of the speed limit
When driving on icy or snow-covered roads, there are many unknowns, so always maintain a safe speed.
If you’re new to driving in the winter, ask a seasoned driver for some input. Being nervous on snowy roads happens to even the most experienced driver—and when it promotes increased awareness it’s not a bad thing.
Tips for Personal Safety
In addition to driving safe, you should also take steps to ensure your personal safety on the road and off. As the old adage goes, plan for the worst and hope for the best. Driving in cold weather conditions can often be unpredictable that’s why it’s important to plan ahead.
Pack plenty of supplies:
- Extra warm clothing: You never want to be caught in the cold without the right gear. Think hats, beanies, base layers, sweaters, and socks. Ideally, you’ll bring clothing you can layer, with extra waterproof layers for the outside.
- Blankets: If power is out, heaters won’t do you any good. Bring more than enough blankets so you can stay warm inside of your cabin.
- Winter/Waterproof boots: You should always have warm boots that are waterproof. They should also have good traction so you aren’t slipping if you have to walk on ice.
- Gloves: Consider bringing glove liners for warmth and then glove shells to keep the water out. You can wear the liners on their own inside and add the shells when facing wet conditions.
- Non-perishable food: In case you can’t get to a store or all the stores are closed, a supply of non-perishable food is always wise.
- Water: Clean, drinkable water is good for hygiene, first aid, and emergencies when you might not have access to other sources of drinking water, which is likely if the power goes out.
- Flashlight: You never want to be left in the dark. Bring at least one good flashlight with plenty of batteries to spare.
- Matches: Matches can help you start a fire in a real emergency for warmth or signaling.
- Extra batteries: Bring spare batteries for any device you have onboard that you might need to use in an emergency.
- Cell phone and charger: Bring an extra cell phone and charger. A battery pack to fuel your charge is a good idea, too.
- Windshield scraper: Always have a spare windshield scraper in case yours gets lost or broken.
- Extras: A bag of ice melt, sand, or cat litter can help you get a tire unstuck. Likewise, a defrost spray can help you if your door handles or window locks up.
- Tire Chains: Always a must if you’re headed somewhere with potentially hazardous conditions.
Hopefully, you never find yourself stranded on the side of the road, but experiencing delays due to winter storms is sometimes unavoidable. By having plenty of supplies on hand, it will make the situation more tolerable.
Above all, when the weather conditions are too severe, pull over until it’s safe enough to drive. Your life and safety are top priority, regardless of any schedule.
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