Are you driving your truck during the winter season? Or do you have to deliver a shipment in an extreme-weather location?
Drivers who have previously traveled in intense cold weather know how hazardous the journey can be. Highways become wet and icy, truck traction is reduced, and visibility is poor.
If winter road challenges take you off guard, you could be involved in an accident.
When hitting the road in freezing winters, you must be prepared.
In this article, Tire Bolt, a professional truck and tire shop, will share 8 essential tips for truck drivers facing cold climates. These tips will help you stay safe on icy roads and days of heavy winter weather.
- Inspections and Maintenance Are Crucial for Safety
Performing a thorough pre-trip truck inspection is crucial if you plan on driving through extreme cold weather.
For this task, we advise you to leave your vehicle in the hands of truck professionals. They will make sure to:
- Confirm that all lights are working properly.
- Inspect the brakes.
- Check coolant and antifreeze levels.
- Ensure the battery is fully charged.
- Assure windshield wipers and washer fluid are in good condition.
- Examine tires, tire pressure, tire alignment, and tire chains.
- They might suggest you use winter or snow tires.
Even if you go to a truck shop for a pre-trip service, all drivers should familiarize themselves with their trucks’ needs for winter weather.
One essential point is truck winter equipment. Understanding features like environmental controls or heated mirrors can significantly prevent errors or distractions while driving.
Take some time to review your truck systems. This practice will enhance your safety while on the road and contribute to a more efficient journey.
- Let There Be Light
Poor visibility is one of the main issues when driving in winter weather conditions.
You must ensure other drivers can see you, so remember to keep your truck’s headlights on at all times. When visibility is very low, professionals advise switching to your low-beam headlights.
This will allow other drivers to see your vehicle and keep a safe distance.
- Clean Snow and Ice from Mirrors and Lights
Your visibility is also important. Always ensure that your windshield, windows, and mirrors are free of snow.
Following the previous tip, ensure your truck’s lights are also snow-free.
We understand that constantly removing snow from your truck can be uncomfortable. However, taking your time to keep these areas clean will significantly improve your and other drivers’ safety.
- Slow Down
We know you probably have a schedule to follow. However, your safety and that of other drivers should always come first.
One of the simplest ways to remain safe while driving in cold weather conditions is to slow down.
High speeds reduce traction, making keeping control of your vehicle more challenging.
Reduce the chances of hydroplaning and accidents by keeping a slow and steady pace.
- Approach Bridges with Caution
As you might already know, elevated surfaces, such as bridges, tend to freeze faster and remain icy longer.
If the bridge hasn’t been treated by the sand truck, you might encounter particularly slippery conditions. This can lead to dangerous slips or slides.
Therefore, approach bridges cautiously and avoid sudden actions such as harsh braking, accelerating, or changing lanes.
When it comes to bridges in winter, slow and steady wins the race.
- Give Yourself (And Other Drivers) Extra Space
Is the road wet? Are you aware that the stopping distance on a wet road is twice the regular distance?
And on icy or covered-by-snow highways, the stopping distance is 10 times longer!
Always give yourself (and the rest of the drivers) enough following distance.
We advise you to drive at a 15-second distance from the other vehicles. By leaving plenty of room between your truck and other vehicles, you’ll have enough space to move out of danger if something unpredictable occurs.
- Stay Alert And Be Aware
You should always be alert while driving, but extreme weather demands us to be extra aware of our surroundings.
Keep your eyes on the roads at all times. Text messages and other distractions can wait.
Be aware of other vehicles on the roads and stay alert for signs of black ice and other winter hazards.
It’s also a good idea to check the weather forecast before hitting the road. You may consider delaying your trip a day or two if it broadcasts severe weather. Remember, your safety is more important than staying on schedule.
- When In Doubt, Pull Over
When weather conditions start getting too hazardous, use your best judgment.
It’s much wiser to pull over and wait for a storm to pass than risk being involved in an accident.
Prepare Your Truck For a Winter Journey
Now you know that with the proper preparation, your truck will be ready to hit the road this winter season.
Before departing, check all your truck’s systems and components. You can also pay a quick visit to a truck maintenance shop to ensure your vehicle is 100% ready to go.
Follow the tips from this guide, and you’ll enjoy a safe, smooth trip when driving through extreme winter weather.
