The winter season can be challenging for truckers with icy roads, snow, low temperatures, blizzards, and whiteouts, which can lead to accidents and cause slow travel, leading to delays and lost revenue. However, truckers can sail through the winter season without a problem by implementing some tips while driving. Below are some driving tips for truckers during the winter season.
1. Check Your Vehicle
Inspecting your truck and getting it prepared for winter is essential. Check the engine oil, tire pressure, and antifreeze levels carefully. It is better to get your vehicle inspected by a mechanic to ensure that it is ready to withstand harsh winter conditions.
2. Drop Your Speed
The majority of accidents occur because the drivers do not adjust their speed according to the weather conditions. While driving on a snow-covered road, you should slow down to compensate for the poor traction. Moreover, slowing down will give you more time to react if something goes wrong.
3. Keep Your Distance From Other Vehicles
The stopping distance on a wet road is two times the normal stopping distance, while it is ten times on an icy road. Keeping your distance from the vehicle in front of you would help you move out safely in an unpredictable situation. Moreover, keeping your distance from terrible drivers during the winter is always good.
4. Turn On The Lights
The visibility is poor in these conditions. Clear the tractor-trailers and the lights, and turn on the headlights so that you can see better. Moreover, other drivers would be able to see your truck and hence, would keep a safe distance from it.
5. Drive Smoothly
In winter, try to avoid doing anything sudden. Sudden braking, accelerating, and cornering can cause accidents. If you have to slow down due to a situation, pump your brakes lightly. Try to maintain a uniform speed and refrain from doing anything that reduces traction on slippery roads.
6. Make Sure You Have The Supplies You Need
Do not forget to bring the things you need. You should carry warm clothes and blankets with you in these cold conditions. Moreover, take canned food and water with you. Lastly, make sure that your diesel tanks are full.
7. Treat Your Diesel
This tip is very important. The diesel will gel when it gets too cold. When your diesel gels, your truck will not run. Add anti-gel additives, which help by dropping the freezing point of diesel so that it is less likely to freeze. Make sure to add the anti-gel additive before you fuel, so it mixes.
8. If The Driving Conditions Are Too Severe, Pull Over
If you experience extreme driving conditions, locate a safe spot and wait for the conditions to get better. Do not worry too much about your schedule; your life is more important.
Conclusion
Whether you are a professional or a new driver, the road conditions during winter can be extremely dangerous. You should make sure that you follow these safety tips to avoid any problems.
