Winter Safety Tips for Truck Drivers

Did you know that winter is one of the most dangerous seasons for drivers?  It’s crucial for drivers to be aware of what to look out for during this time to prevent unnecessary accidents. As the temperature cools, the roadways can turn slippery, posing a serious hazard to your safety. Everyone wants their cargo to get to its destination as fast as possible, but when ice and snowfall, that may not be feasible.

Here are Seven Important Winter Safety Tips for Truck Drivers

1. Check the Weather

It is important to keep checking for weather updates and road closures. Pay close attention to your phone and radio notifications for possible changes that may take place like a snowstorm. Also, look out for safe, alternative routes.

2. Use Your Headlights

Also, you’ll need to check if your headlights are functioning properly. Another tip to remember is that when driving, you’ll need to use low beams because the high beams reflect light and make it close to impossible for someone to see. So, use a low amount of light to avoid blinding other drivers. This will also help reduce accidents.

3. Watch Out for Bridges

Furthermore, during the winter, bridges freeze faster than roads. They end up accumulating black ice that you may not see from a distance. Therefore, it’s advisable for you to avoid them. You can also use navigational maps to help you choose routes that do not have bridges. However, if that is the only route, then drive slowly and carefully when crossing the bridge.

4. Remain Calm

Additionally, remember to remain relaxed and avoid panicking when driving during the winter. In case of any emergency, come to a slow stop if there is a need to. When taking those sharp corners, be sure that the road is clear enough, then slowly take them.

If the weather happens to change while in transit do not panic. Instead, if you can get a place to make a stopover, do so. Then check that you have all necessary supplies in the event of getting stranded and inspect your truck.

5. Check Your Truck

Likewise, regular inspections on your truck are crucial during the winter.

A thorough inspection will help you avoid major problems. Plus, it’s part of your daily duties as a driver. Some of the things that you’ll need to look out for are listed below:

• The functionality of your window defroster
• All fluid levels.
• Proper functioning of all lights
• A fully charged battery
• Tire pressure and condition
• Wiper blades

Also, you’ll need to make sure that your exhaust pipes do not have any snow in them.

6. Get Adequate Sleep.

One of the most important safety tips for truck drivers relates to sleep. Ideally, you should get 6 to 8 hours of sleep before driving. It will help you to stay alert, think fast, and be on your toes in case of an emergency.

7. Always Drive Safely

Studies have shown that over 17% of road accidents happen during the winter. With that being said, here are a few more bits of advice to get you through the season:

• Keep a safe distance between you and the vehicles ahead of you. It is advisable to keep at least ten times the usual stopping distance. This practice will give you enough time to react in an emergency.
• Drive at a safe speed even if it’s below the speed limit during a storm. Since trucks take longer to come to a complete stop, this will help you to maintain control of the vehicle.

As you can see, you need to be fully prepared when driving your truck during the winter. So, keep in mind these tips to guide you during the winter season. If you would like to find out more about truck driving regulations or would like to know more about getting your CDL, visit Zenith Logistics Institute for more information on safe driving tips.