Winter Driving Tips for Truck Drivers

Driving in the winter presents many challenges, especially for truck drivers. Icy roads, snowfall, and limited visibility are just a few common risks. During the winter season, it becomes increasingly important for drivers to be prepared and think quickly when faced with emergencies on the road. Being prepared can make all the difference when the elements throw a curveball your way.

Discover essential winter driving tips for truckers below to increase your safety this winter.

Typical Winter Driving Conditions

Depending on their location, truck drivers can face any one or more of the following challenges while driving in winter weather:

• Snow: Snow accumulation can drastically reduce visibility and create dangerously slippery roads. It can also lead to road closures that cause delays.
• Extremely cold temperatures: When temperatures drop significantly below freezing, ice can form on roads, parking areas, and other surfaces.
• Black ice formation: Black ice can be challenging to spot because it’s transparent, making roads extremely hazardous. Hitting black ice at fast speeds can cause vehicles to slide and lose control.

Top 5 Winter Driving Tips for Truck Drivers

According to the Department of Transportation (DOT), more than 1,300 people lose their lives every year to vehicle crashes on slushy, icy, or snowy roads, while over 116,800 are injured. These numbers alone prove that every driver needs to take extra precautions when driving during the winter.

If you’re unsure where or how to start, here are five key truck-driving safety tips:

1. Prepare for the Trip

Preparing for your trip starts with an inspection. This is one of the most essential parts of a safe journey because it ensures the truck is in good working order. During the inspection, you’ll need to:

• Check tire pressure and tire tread.
• Examine the brakes.
• Ensure the lights, windshield wipers, and washer fluids work.
• Inspect the coolant and antifreeze levels.
• Ensure you have an ice scraper, a flashlight with extra batteries, tow chains or a rope, and tire chains.
• Have an emergency kit with essential supplies such as blankets, water, a first aid kit, and non-perishable food.

In addition to making sure your truck is in good shape, check the weather forecasts along your planned route. Will there be potential hazards along the way? If so, consider taking an alternate route to make it to your destination safely.

2. Increase Following Distance

On average, a safe following distance is at least three seconds behind the vehicle in front of you. This space can give you enough reaction time to avoid possible accidents. However, truckers should increase their following distance due to the size and weight of their vehicles.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) recommends a distance of at least one second for every 10 feet of vehicle length. Add another second if traveling above speeds of 40 miles per hour. Consider traveling at an even farther distance from the vehicles in front of you if conditions are poor.

3. Approach Bridges With Caution

Bridges tend to freeze faster than normal roads because they’re exposed to cold air from all sides. In addition, the materials used to construct bridges are natural heat conductors. This means bridges lose heat faster than other roads. 

Be extra cautious when approaching and driving on bridges, especially in cold temperatures. This means:

• Maintaining a safe following distance.
• Driving slowly.
• Paying attention to any warning signs that may indicate bridge icing or hazardous conditions.
• Braking earlier to help you prevent skidding or losing control of your vehicle.

4. Slow Down

Higher speeds reduce traction, making it more challenging to maintain control of your vehicle. Traction control is especially important when driving on wet or icy roads that tend to be slippery. Simply slowing down your vehicle can help you have greater control.

5. Practice Defensive Driving

Defensive driving for truck drivers involves staying alert and anticipating any potential hazards on the road. Being hyper-aware of your surroundings is essential, especially if road conditions aren’t safe. Always drive smoothly and avoid abrupt steering or braking. Part of safe driving in winter weather is also paying attention to road conditions and reacting accordingly. If you can anticipate the actions of other drivers, you can respond and keep yourself and others safe.

Post-Trip Procedures

After arriving at your destination, performing a post-trip inspection is essential. This can help you identify any potential issues that may have occurred during the journey and address them. Your post-trip procedure can include:

• Inspecting the truck, checking for damage, signs of wear and tear, and any malfunctions.
• Documenting any issues you encountered during the trip for future reference.
• Prioritizing any repairs or servicing that needs to be done.
• Ensuring your emergency kit is restocked for the next trip.

How to Handle Emergencies on the Road

As prepared as you can be, sometimes unexpected challenges occur. If you find yourself in an emergency when driving during the winter, knowing what to do and having the right supplies on you can make a difference in your safety. Here are a few key tips for handling emergencies on the road:

• Stay calm and assess the situation: Staying composed will help you think clearly and make better decisions. If you’re with other people, avoiding panicking can also keep them calm and allow you to work together.
• Ensure personal safety and secure the area: Prioritize your safety by immediately moving to a safe location if possible.
• Contact emergency services: Reach out to emergency services immediately, especially if there are injuries or significant damage.
• Attend to medical needs: If you’re trained to do so, administer basic first aid to yourself or others involved in the incident.
• Document the incident: Remember to note important details such as the time, date, location, conditions of the incident, and any other relevant observations.

Partner With a Company That Takes Safety Seriously

Partnering with a company that emphasizes safety is essential for protecting drivers. By collaborating with a safety-focused organization, drivers can benefit from a supportive environment that prioritizes their well-being and the integrity of the cargo. When you work with Keller Logistics, you get access to comprehensive truck transportation services, including fleets equipped with advanced tracking and technology.

For over 40 years, we’ve maintained the highest safety rating by the DOT and comply with all FMCSA and CSA rules and regulations. In 2022, we won the Fleet Safety Award, showcasing our dedication to driver safety. If you need our 3PL services or want to partner with us in a different way, our team is ready to assist.

Contact Keller Logistics today to learn more about our truck transportation services and our efforts to prioritize driver safety.