Winter Driving Tips

Winter Driving can be very intimidating as a Commercial Driver, Below is a list of Tips that can help you and others stay safe.

• Always conduct a pre-trip Make sure your lights are working and your wiper blades are good. Top off your washer fluid reservoir and put an extra one in the truck. Top off your fuel tank before heading out. Make sure tires are properly inflated and have good tread. All of which is only just a small part of the pre-trip.
• Slow down. Speed is the #1 problem in winter driving conditions.
• Watch for brake lights on vehicles in front of you.
• Keep a good following distance. In fact, add a little extra room.
• If visibility is low, expect there to be vehicles in front of you that you can’t see.
• Don’t use the engine brake or cruise control.
• Bridges and overpasses freeze faster than the roads. Be extra careful.
• Be extremely cautious of onramps and off ramps.
• Start slowing down early when having to stop at traffic signals and signs. Brake slowly. Braking hard can cause the truck to jackknife.
• When roads look wet, watch the tire spray of other vehicles. If there is no tire spray, be cautious of ice.
• Plan ahead for a longer trip and take extra time.
• Keep lights, mirrors and windshield wipers free of snow and ice.
• Keep the truck’s side steps free of snow and ice.
• Chain up when necessary. It is much better to spend the time chaining up rather than spend your time dealing with an accident.
• Do not pass snow plows.