Safe Trucking Tips for Winter
Winter weather can lead to some dangerous road conditions for regular-sized vehicles, but especially for commercial trucks. Even the most experienced truck drivers can have a difficult time navigating wet or icy roads. As temperatures drop and ice begins to form, here are some trucking tips to help make sure you and your cargo arrive safely at the job site.
6 Truck Driving Tips for Handling Winter Conditions
Tip #1: Slow Down and Maintain a Safe Distance from Other Travelers
When roads are wet, icy, or covered with snow, it is important to remember to slow down. Even in the most ideal driving conditions, speed is a factor in most trucking accidents. Poor winter conditions can cause poor traction and driving slower can give you more time to react if anything goes wrong. On average, it takes roughly 1.5 seconds for you to recognize a hazard and then make the appropriate reaction. For a heavy vehicle traveling at 55 mph with good breaks, it takes roughly 4.5 seconds or 170 feet to come to a complete stop. When you add up these times, the total stopping distance under ideal road conditions can be 6 seconds, or 290 feet. With less traction, this total distance can increase considerably.
Tip #2: When in Doubt, Pull Over
If road conditions become too severe to drive or continue your trip, it is better to delay your travel than become involved in an accident. Stay up to date with the weather and changing road conditions.
Tip #3: Avoid Traveling in a Pack
Under poor road conditions, it is a good idea to leave the group and travel alone. This can reduce the chance of becoming involved in a multi-vehicle accident.
Tip #4: Clear Your Vehicle of Snow and Ice
To improve visibility, take the time to clear ice and snow from all windows. Also, be sure to clear your headlights and taillights as well, to not only allow you to better see the road but for other vehicles to see you too.
Tip #5: Make Sure You Are Well-Rested Before Traveling
Driving tired can lead to delayed reaction times or drifting on the roadways, which is not only unsafe for you but also for the other vehicles on the road.
Tip #6: Make Sure Your Vehicle Is Inspected and Fully Equipped to Travel
Have Truck Service of Virginia provide your truck inspections and repairs to ensure your vehicle is safe to travel. Truck Service of Virginia can provide all required repairs and inspections up to the current Department of Transportation guidelines. By simply making sure your brakes, tires, and other equipment are in good condition, you can help prevent an accident.
By following these tips, you can help ensure you and your cargo can arrive at your destination safely and get through the dangerous road conditions winter brings. Truck Service of Virginia is your go-to expert for all your trucking needs. If you have any questions about safe trucking tips or would like to become a TSVA customer, contact us today by giving us a call at 804-231-9116.
