Winter weather brings on a whole new list of concerns for truck drivers – reduced traction, cold-related breakdowns, and increased fatigue, among others. With the right preparation and the right gear, truck drivers can stay safe and efficient through the toughest months.
1. Clean All Snow from Mirrors, Windows & Lights
As a truck driver, you know how important visibility is at all times. With large blind spots on all four sides of your vehicle, having as much visibility as possible is vital. Maintain clear glass surfaces and unobstructed reflective materials. Leftover snow or ice can obstruct visibility in mirrors or even blind your headlights, risking accidents.
2. Slow Down
Slowing down is a simple way to stay safe during the winter. High speeds and icy conditions are a recipe for losing control. Reducing your speed offers more control on icy and snowy roads. Even a few miles per hour (MPH) slower in these conditions can prevent jackknifing or sliding. It is better to be driving slower with the option to brake safely than to be hauling at top speeds in these conditions.
3. Brake and Accelerate Slowly
Gradual moments in icy and snowy conditions are the best for all drivers. Gradually applying brakes and gas prevents tire skids and loss of traction. Steady, even acceleration helps to maintain tire grip on the road. Brake early, gently, and use lower gears when possible.
4. Use Tire Chains
Although not legal in all states, Snow Tire Chains offer extra protection on steep, icy, or snow-packed roads. Always be sure to check chain laws and signage of the state you are driving in, many religious mandate chains in certain conditions.
5. Avoid Cruise Control
We all love to use cruise control, it makes driving easier and often helps to prevent speeding, but cruise control in winter conditions can cause unintended acceleration on icy patches. Using manual throttle control will give you the best reaction time.
Also Read: Tips for Improving Your Semi Truck’s Fuel Efficiency
6. Use A/C to Keep Windows Defrosted
Although it can be counterintuitive to run the A/C during the winter, running it actually helps to reduce humidity in the air – effectively preventing window fogging. For a quick defrost, set up the heat and A/C together when turning everything on.
7. Keep Your Truck Clean
We all want a clean vehicle whenever possible, but it’s imperative for winter safety that your tractor and trailer stay clean. Buildup from road salt can damage metal parts and wiring while also coating reflective tape, license plates, and lights with that salty grime. Clean these parts regularly to ensure visibility of your vehicle at all times. Consider periodic washes during the winter months.
8. Be Aware of Low Visibility
Moments of low visibility can cause many accidents on the road during winter weather. Snowstorms, fog, and road spray from other vehicles can cause hazards that lower road visibility. During these conditions, use low-beam lights and maintain lane awareness to the best of your ability.
9. Stay Alert Around Snowplows
Snowplows are fantastic for clearing snow and ice on the road, but driving around them can often be risky. Avoid passing plows on the right side, most plows direct their road debris to clear from that side of the road, so passing a plow on the right side can bring decreased visibility and an increased debris risk. Maintain a distance between vehicles and let them clear the road ahead.
10. Avoid Driving in Ruts
Ruts on the road are packed with snow and ice from other vehicles before you. Driving in them can pack snow into ice and inevitably trap tires. Attempt to stay in fresh tracks or slightly offset your vehicle from them for better traction.
11. Practice Defensive Driving
Anticipating the mistakes and movements of other drivers on the road is pivotal to safe winter driving. Maintain a wide space, control your stress, stay patient, and focus on reaction time. Defensive drivers get home safely.
Conclusion: Gear Up and Drive Smart This Winter
Winter driving is all about preparation, patience, and proper gear – a true test of your skills as a truck driver. Always inspect your vehicle, plan, and prioritize safety in winter weather. It is better to expect the worst on the road and prepare for it rather than assume good conditions.
For winter gear you can trust, shop Mytee Products for Winter Tarps, Ratchet Straps, Tire Chains, or Cargo Control Accessories that will last through this winter and the next.
