Winter Driving Tips for Truck Drivers

If temperatures drop to five degrees and above, even the best truckers may struggle to navigate the slippery roads. Insufficient visibility and reduced traction can make the work of a big-rig driver very difficult.
 

Inspect Your Vehicle

Making sure your truck is prepared for winter is vital to avoid any major issues. Make sure to check the pressure of your tires as well as the engine oil and antifreeze levels with care before hitting the road. It is also possible to request a mechanic to examine your car to ensure that it's prepared for the harsh winter season of wear and wear.

Don't forget to use snow or ice tires for your truck.
 

Slow Down

The majority of accidents happen due to drivers not adjusting their speed to match road conditions. When driving on a snow-covered roadway it is possible to compensate for the low grip by slowing down your speed. Additionally, driving slower will give you time to react in the event that something happens to go wrong. Therefore, you should be more relaxed on your accelerator this winter.
 

Give Yourself Some Extra Space

Are you aware that the stopping distance when it's a wet roadway is more than twice the standard stopping distance? If you drive on roads that are icy, it's more than 10 times! Therefore, make sure you ensure that you leave enough space between your vehicle and the car ahead of you to ensure that you can have enough room to be away from danger in the event of an emergency. It's always beneficial to create an extra distance between yourself and any bad drivers you'll encounter during winter.
 

Stay Smooth

In the colder months make sure you refrain from doing anything abrupt - abrupt braking, sudden acceleration, turning, or turning. If the circumstances require you to slow down quickly on a road that is slippery then apply your brakes gently. The most important thing is to maintain an even speed and to be careful not to do anything that could reduce the traction on slippery roads.
 

Pay Attention to the Tire Spray

This is among the most vital (and often overlooked) winter driving strategies. An effective way to determine the road's condition is to look at the amount of water that is leaking from the tires of cars in the vicinity. If you see a lot of water spraying and the road is saturated. If the spray on your tires is less than the norm then the road is beginning to freeze, and you have to be extra careful.
 

Let There Be Light

The visibility is very poor during stormy weather. Be sure to clear your light fixtures and tractor-trailers that have been that are covered in ice and snow and turn on the headlights on your truck. This will enable drivers around you to see and remain the distance between you and your vehicle.
 

Take Evasive Action

Sometimes it is better to use the evasive route rather than braking hard, particularly on roads covered with snow. If you're traveling at 25-30mph, you should consider slowing your vehicle a bit and moving around obstacles to avoid collisions.
 

When in Doubt, Pull Over

If the weather conditions are too bad to drive, don't worry too much about your plans. Find an alternative to leave the highway and be patient until the weather is better and safe to drive.
 

Be Prepared

Do not forget to bring blankets and warm clothing to keep warm clothes and blankets with you. If you're planning to take an extended journey, be sure to bring flashlights, shovels, matches, or traction devices, as well as bags of sand, etc. Be sure to be equipped with emergency roadside help for vehicles to rely on in the event of a breakdown or encounter difficulties in the roadway.
 

Check Twice

In the event of an icy whiteout, it becomes difficult to spot the signs and traffic lights. Be sure to look twice before entering the intersection, or going off one-way streets.

This winter road safety guideline may seem simple but it'll only be effective if you implement the guidelines carefully. It's ultimately your responsibility to use your judgment and remain safe while driving on the roads.