Navigating through nasty winter weather can be a tricky task for truckers. In order to ensure that loads are delivered in a timely fashion, drivers need to be prepared for facing hazardous driving conditions in a multi-ton vehicle. Aside from relying on an emergency kit and warm blankets, there are many things truckers can do to stay calm and in control while out on the road. Here are 10 winter driving tips for truckers to stay safe while trekking through the ice, sleet and snow.
10 winter driving tips for truckers
1. Stay calm:
When out on the road, remember to relax. Panicking may make you overreact and lose your focus.
2. Drive at a comfortable pace:
Maintain a driving speed that you feel comfortable with. If you feel a bit shaky driving on snow and ice, remember to take it slow. Additionally, if your truck has a low ride height, you may encounter difficulties maneuvering through snow. Be sure to slow down in any of these instances.
3. Stay in control:
In order to maintain traction, avoid any sudden moves. Accelerating hard, braking suddenly, and zooming around sharp curves will all decrease traction. Steer smoothly and keep a consistent speed throughout the trip.
4. Use your lights:
In treacherous weather conditions, using your headlights can make all the difference. This way, other drivers will be able to see you better, and your taillights will also become brighter as a result.
5. Use your signals:
When it comes to changing lanes in inclement weather, there is one simple rule all truckers should follow. Signal your lane change with four or five blinks, and then proceed to move over slowly. When making turns, be sure to use your signals before you start to slow down.
6. Keep your distance:
Maintain a comfortable distance between your truck and the car in front of you at all times. This way, you will be prepared in the event of an emergency stop.
7. Use tire chains:
Keep tire chains handy in the event of slow pile-ups or icy road conditions.
8. Reduce your speed:
Never feel obligated to drive as fast as the speed limit. In order to prevent the potential for rollovers, jackknifes, or collisions, it is best to drive at a slower pace.
9. Keep the fuel tank full:
During winter months, keeping your gas tank full will help prevent water condensation from building up in the fuel line. It could also come in handy for long delays due to winter accidents.
10. Be extra careful on bridges:
Since bridges freeze before roads do, it is crucial to always proceed with extra caution when crossing over bridges.
Bonus Tip!
And a final tip for truckers… If snowy and icy winter conditions are slowing your trucking operation, you can count on a factoring company for trucking to help you weather cash flow dilemmas. Factoring for truckers helps owner-operators to mid-sized trucking fleets get the cash needed to accept more loads and grow their business. Factoring also helps keep truckers prepared for the unexpected by providing cash for unanticipated costs – like tire repairs from potholes.
To learn more about our recourse & non-recourse truck factoring programs, click here to request a free quote. Or call us at 216.714.1735
