The winter months can be challenging for truck drivers because of icy road conditions. Add snow and freezing temperatures to the mix and you’re likely going to have trouble with traction and visibility, among other things. Plus, if you are driving in an area that gets snow and ice but it usually doesn’t, then you can expect the drivers around you to not know “how to drive” causing more chaos on the roads. Yikes.
Okay, so what are some tips for truck drivers who must drive on icy roads?
Inspect Your Truck
For starters, make sure to inspect your vehicle before you drive it. Checking things like tire pressure, engine oil and antifreeze levels are important.
Be Prepared for Poor Traction
Once on the road, tempted though you may be to speed up, just slow down now and then and remember it’s better to drive slowly on icy roads than to speed up on them if you want to avoid accidents. You’ll likely need to compensate for poor traction by reducing your speed, and the slower you go the more time you’ll have to react if something goes wrong. Give yourself some extra space between you and other vehicles, too.
Look for Tire Spray
Truckers who’ve been at it a while know to look for tire spray off the vehicles around them– if a lot of water is being sprayed then the road is wet. If not, it’s probably turning to ice or already icy. When roads seem to be “too icy even for me” then pull over rather than risking a major accident.
Use Tools at Your Disposal
When driving on icy roads have your headlights on– that will help with visibility. Others can see the truck better and those lights can allow truck drivers to see who is near them.
Finally, be prepared for icy roads. Have things like a flashlight, shovel, sandbags and/or blankets/extra food with you should trouble arise. Even if you don’t become stranded, it’s always better to have proper supplies just in case.
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