How to Prepare for a Winter Driving

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No matter whether you drive a car or a truck, wintertime could be a high-risk situation to be driving on the highway. Even if you’re a seasoned truck-driver with years of experience, driving on wet and slippery roadways can be a bit of a challenge. However, you can winter-proof your truck with some preparation before the harsh weather strikes. Here are ten tips from experienced heavy commercial truck-drivers to prepare for a safe and smooth driving experience in the winters:

1. Ensure that the truck is in great condition

Clear the ice and snow off your truck, especially the trunk, windows, lights, hood and roof. Such things can affect the visibility when you’re driving, which is why you should inspect the wiper blades, lights, tires and fluids as well. Also, go for regular gas checkups.

1. Have a winter kit

Your ‘winter kit’ should include:

1. Non-perishable eatables and water

2. Appropriate clothing

3. Salt

4. Blanket

5. A shovel to remove snow

6. Jumper cables

7. Flashlight

8. Batteries

9. First-aid kit with medication

10. Cellphone and charger

1. Make your way slowly

Drive your vehicle slowly on slippery roads and deal with approaching vehicles in time. Be patient. Be aware of other drivers to maintain safety on winter roads.

1. Keep a safe distance between vehicles

Maintain a safe distance between yourself and other vehicles, and don’t drive in groups. Increase your following distance by 8 to 10 seconds when you’re driving on slippery and icy roads.

1. Have the steering wheel under control

Taking sharp and sudden turns increase the risk of losing control over the truck. Have a steady grip over the steering wheel and slowly drive through the roads.

1. Avoid sudden brakes and acceleration

Take your time when accelerating and pulling the brakes, for it greatly reduces the chances of an accident. If you have to slow down on a slippery road, press the brakes lightly.

1. Avoid taking sharp turns and bends

It is wise to maintain a slow speed and slowly steer around obstacles rather than taking sharp turns. There’s a risk of losing control, to avoid which you need to keep a safe distance from other vehicles so that you can steer your vehicle smoothly.

1. Take extra care when you’re driving in the mountains

Things get a little more dangerous when you’re driving up the mountains because the weather tends to fluctuate – think strong winds, hard snow and avalanches. Keep snow chains with you and always read the signboards, and follow the news updates from the local transportation radio station.

1. Beware of black ice

The term ‘black ice’ can be defined as a thin and transparent layer of ice that is formed during nearly-freezing temperatures. They can look rather deceptive on certain parts of the roads such as intersections, bridges, shady areas and overpasses. Ice can build up over your vehicle, while trees and signboards can be covered with a layer of frosting, with the roads simply look wet.

1. Immediate safety plan in case of a skid

   1. Pull the clutch

   2. Use the left mirror

   3. Steer until you regain control of the truck

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