Winter Driving Tips for Truck Drivers
The average truck driver logs around 200 miles for a single shipment – that’s a lot of driving.
These long stretches are dangerous enough on their own, but the risks can skyrocket during winter weather. The good news is that there’s plenty you can do to prepare. You can rest easy knowing you’ve taken steps to reduce the risks as much as possible.
Read on to learn all several winter driving tips for truck drivers.
Keep It Slow and Steady
When it comes to winter driving safety, it’s important to change your pace. Simply put, you can’t drive on an icy or snowy road at the same speed you’d drive on a summer one. Even if you’re up against a deadline, it’s better to keep your speed at a safe level.
After all, if you crash, then you won’t make your deadline – or might not get there (or home) at all. The faster you go on a wet or icy road, the higher your chance of hydroplaning. At that point, there’s little you can do to avoid a potentially fatal accident.
A tip: taking the best route can reduce the time you’re on risky roads altogether.
Be a Defensive Driver
Some drivers feel overly secure because of the size of their vehicles, but it’s important to be on defense at all times. This involves watching out for other vehicles driving recklessly, or that aren’t equipped for the conditions.
If someone is eager to pass you, it’s better to change lanes and let them go around if possible. Another aspect of being a defensive driver involves keeping your distance. The closer you are to another vehicle, the quicker an accident can develop.
A big gap allows commercial drivers plenty of time to brake slowly. A quick braking action could turn into a disastrous slide during the winter. Big rigs don’t stop quickly!
Be Mindful of Bridges and Overpasses
You can avoid potentially unsafe conditions by avoiding bridges and overpasses when possible. These structures tend to freeze over faster than average roads. There’s also a higher chance of them lacking salt to dissolve the ice.
Even if it looks safe from afar, there could be black ice that you can’t see.
Using proper navigational technology can make you aware of bridges well ahead of time. If there’s no other way to your destination than over a bridge, slow down even more until you make it across safe and sound.
Are You Ready for Winter Driving?
Following these winter driving tips for truck drivers can ensure you’re as safe as possible while also staying on schedule. We want you to always come back to your family and enjoy the holiday season.
We offer a wide range of shipping and logistic solutions. For three decades, our customers have put their trust in our state-of-the-art technology and operational expertise. Feel free to reach out to us with any questions you may have. We look forward to working with you.
