Commercial drivers have an immense responsibility to safely transport goods from one place to another. Weather conditions can often pose significant challenges that can affect the driving experience and, more importantly, safety on the road.
We’re going to explore how different weather conditions can impact commercial driving, as well as provide some tips and precautions to help navigate these challenges.
Driving in Poor Road Conditions
Rain and snow can create hazardous road conditions, reduce visibility, and decrease road traction. Here are some tips to keep in mind when driving during poor road conditions.
Slow down: Reduce your speed to adjust for the decreased traction on wet roads and potential hydroplaning. Hydroplaning has the potential for serious consequences, but even more so for a commercial vehicle since they are larger and often carrying cargo. Commercial drivers should also slow down when faced with snowy conditions, as snow on the road can lead to less traction and also hide ice patches.
Leave ample space: Increase your following distance to allow for longer stopping distances. Due to their increased length and weight, commercial vehicles need more stopping distance than passenger cars, and even more when roads have poor conditions.
Check your wipers and lights: Ensure windshield wipers are in good condition and lights are working properly for optimal visibility. Having properly functioning devices will lower the risk of decreased visibility and allow other road users to see you.
Avoid sudden maneuvers: Accelerate, brake, and change lanes gradually to maintain control of the commercial vehicle. Sudden maneuvers can lead to other issues, like hydroplaning or brake malfunctions. Apply gentle and steady pressure to brakes to avoid skidding. If the vehicle starts to skid remain calm and avoid braking or accelerating; instead allow the vehicle to naturally slow while steering where you want to go.
Stay alert: Keep an eye out for other vehicles and road hazards. Vehicles can be especially difficult to spot in side view mirrors if they haven’t turned on headlights and when there is water splashing and spraying off the road.
Driving in Snowy Road Conditions
Be aware of these additional factors and preventative measures to take when driving in snowy road conditions.
Clear the vehicle: Before hitting the road remove any snow or ice from the vehicle, including windows, lights, and the roof. Prepare ahead of time for snow-covered trailers by investing in a telescoping snow brush. Clearing snow and ice ahead of time ensures snow won’t fall off and into the road or onto other vehicles.
Use winter tires and chains: Invest in winter tires designed to provide better traction and shorter stopping distances on snowy or icy roads. Commercial vehicles should also carry tire chains when driving through roadways that have the potential for winter conditions. Prepare ahead of time by checking routes and whether tire chains are recommended or required.
Plan For Unexpected Weather: Equip your vehicle with an up-to-date winter roadside emergency kit that ensures you are prepared beyond the basics.
Driving in Foggy Conditions
Fog can limit visibility, making it essential to exercise caution and adjust your driving accordingly. As with rain and snow, speed should be reduced and in addition to that, here are some tips for driving in foggy conditions.
Use low beam headlights: Turn on low beam lights to improve visibility and avoid using high beams, as they will reflect off fog, potentially reducing visibility rather than improving it. Use fog lights, if the vehicle has them equipped and available. Fog lights will enhance visibility further. Ensure these are turned off once the fog clears, as they can be blinding to oncoming traffic. While driving in fog, also consider using your turn signals early to give other road users ample time to react and respond.
Pay attention to road markings. Stay within the correct lane and use road markings as a guide to maintain the correct course. Yellow lines can be difficult to make out through the fog, so watch for the “fog lines” that designate where the road shoulder is. Watch for other indicators of where the road and lanes are, such as road sign poles and oncoming traffic.
Driving in High Winds
Strong winds can create unstable driving conditions, particularly for high-profile vehicles. Like other poor road conditions, reduce your speed and increase following distance. Grip the steering wheel firmly as strong gusts of wind can push vehicles and keep a strong grip on the steering to ensure you're ready to react in an emergency. Strong gusts of wind can push vehicles, and keeping a strong grip on the steering wheel will ensure you’re prepared and ready to react.
Be cautious when passing or being passed. For the same reason drivers should keep a firm grip on the steering wheel, they should be prepared for sudden wind gusts that may cause vehicles to sway or move unexpectedly. Drivers should also be mindful of debris, as strong winds can cause fallen branches as well as blowing debris across the roadway.
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By following these tips and taking appropriate precautions, commercial drivers can navigate the various weather challenges that come along. Safety should always be the top priority, and adapting driving techniques to suit the weather conditions is an essential part of maintaining safety. Stay vigilant, stay safe, and happy driving!
