Winter can be a challenge for truck drivers, because it’s a lot tougher to drive on roads covered with ice, slush and snow.
How should truck drivers prepare for icy conditions?
Remember that people, in general, have a hard time driving in icy conditions, which means truckers need to be extra careful around them, no matter what they’re driving. This means giving more space than usual between your truck and “them.” If you can handle a good 14 seconds following distance on icy roads, do so.
Good visibility helps during icy conditions. Make sure all your truck lights are working and that they’re not covered by snow. Also clean off snow from reflective tape as well as your windows and mirrors. Make sure your windows are defrosted before attempting to take your rig on the road. Of course, with winter driving conditions, truckers have to be extra vigilant, noticing everything around them, looking ahead, to the sides, and to the rear. When a truck produces a cloud of snow as it barrels down the road, that cloud can obscure a tiny car nearby, so truckers have to especially be careful when they want to change lanes.
Ice on roads is especially a problem on bridges, at intersections, and around entrance/exit ramps. When it’s particularly windy, and the roads are curvy and slippery, drivers need to slow down and stay steady as best they can.
Speed decreases traction. Therefore, it’s better to slow down when possible on icy roads. Avoid driving in the ruts of other vehicles because their wheels can pack snow into ice.
Platinum Drivers caters to all areas of Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas. Even though these are warmer states than up North, they still experience icy roads at certain times of the year. Truckers have to be prepared for any and all driving conditions, including wintry ice. Safety is key. Overall, taking it slower than usual is the best advice for driving on ice.