Commercial drivers face unique challenges when it comes to winter conditions, and if you’re planning to drive through winter roads, being prepared will help you to handle these unpredictable situations.
Focusing on both the pre-trip preparations and driving with care are both important parts of winter driving. In this guide, we’re going to review some tips to keep both you and other road users safe throughout the winter driving season!
What should you do before winter driving?
Carry tire chains and know how to use them . Tire chains will help increase traction and improve your ability to stop on snow and ice. Be aware that there are mandates for winter tires and tire chains on specific routes during the winter season.
Perform a pre-trip inspection . A vehicle that is in working order goes a long way towards a smooth journey. Following a step-by-step guide for a pre-trip inspection is something a professional driver will need to do before every drive, and sometimes en route as well, but is even more important during cold weather and winter road conditions. Some vehicle components can be more likely to malfunction or have issues during cold weather, and making sure everything is working well ahead of your drive can prevent you from getting stuck on the side of the road in the snow!
Stay healthy and well-rested .Having your body and mind well rested will help you be better mentally prepared for the stressful situation of winter driving. This will help you stay alert and focused on the road, allowing you to respond with a clear mind to any issues that may arise.
Bring a winter roadside kit . Getting stuck in winter weather can be an unpleasant experience, but if the roads become too dangerous or your vehicle breaks down, a fully stocked roadside kit may be a requirement. Bring along a first aid kit, some extra warm clothing, and snacks, and ensure they are easily accessible. A folding shovel, flashlight, and extra outerwear also make great additions to a ready-to-go kit.
How should you drive in winter conditions?
Slow it down. Arriving safely is more important than arriving quickly. Adjust your speed according to the weather, road conditions, and traffic flow. Icy roads reduce traction, meaning that it takes longer for your vehicle to come to a stop. This can be especially dangerous when driving at high speeds. Reduce your speed and give yourself more time to react to any unexpected situations on the road.
Keep your distance. During icy road conditions, it is recommended to leave at least three times the normal amount of space between you and the vehicle in front of you. This will give you more time to react if the other road user in front of you stops suddenly.
Remove distractions. It’s important to stay alert and focused when driving in winter conditions. Avoid distractions such as using your phone, adjusting the radio, or eating while driving. Keep both hands on the wheel and focus on the road ahead.
Turn on your lights. Especially if you're driving during the day, it can be easy to forget the importance of having your lights on. During limited visibility, turning on your lights can help other drivers see where you are and respond accordingly.
Avoid unnecessary lane changes. During a snowstorm, a ridge of snow can often build up between lanes. This can affect your vehicle's stability and make it difficult to control your direction. If you do need to change lanes, signal early and avoid making sudden moves.
Pull over if needed. Sometimes, visibility can become severely limited, or snow and ice can make road conditions too difficult. Pulling over can help prevent crashes, injuries, or mishaps on the road. Find a safe location to wait for the storm to pass or until visibility improves.
Buckle Up. Safety features such as seatbelts can protect you if the unexpected happens. Always stay buckled up to reduce the chance of major injuries in case you go off the road or have an accident.
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As the winter months come around, it is important for commercial drivers to prepare for the potential of winter road conditions. By slowing down, increasing following distance, using headlights, maintaining your commercial vehicle, and avoiding unnecessary trips during severe weather, commercial drivers can contribute to safer roads for everyone!
