Driving in Snow: How To Stay Safe

One of the riskiest jobs in the country is truck driving. In reality, fleets in the transportation and logistics industries have some of the highest rates of occupational injuries and fatalities, and those rates appear to be rising, especially during the winter season as it becomes really difficult for truckers to drive through.

Wait! Remember the safety rules for driving in winter.

Even for experienced drivers, winter driving is dangerous and frightening. According to the American Automobile Association's Foundation for Traffic Safety, snow-covered roads and roads covered in ice, slush, or water are responsible for over 2,000 road deaths, and nearly 500,000 vehicle crashes annually. Don't be afraid!

Although, it can be challenging to drive in slippery conditions, such as when there is ice or snow. To avoid losing control due to sudden movements, it is essential to use the accelerator, brake, and steering carefully. Keep your cool and drive safely.

Got ready? It's time for your truck.

With so many features in your light-duty commercial truck, it might not be evident initially. Hence, it's essential to know how your car functions. Snowy days come along with a lot of traffic delays. Be prepared; keep your gas tank full. Make sure to clean the windshield and windows. Remember to check your car's exhaust pipe as well.

You can get your wheels traction on snow or ice by digging them out of a ditch with a shovel and a bag of either salt or sand. Keep that in your truck. If you get stuck, a blanket will keep you warm, and water bottles will keep you hydrated.

Depending on the manufacturer's recommendations for your vehicle, a thinner grade of oil will help your car run more smoothly in the winter because the oil in your vehicle thickens in cold weather.

Slow and Steady in the Snow

You should look and think further down the road as it gets more slippery. Consider the steps you'll need to take next, be it a light or heavy truck. For turns, go very slowly. Remember, when the road is wet, the stopping distance should be doubled, tripled for snow, and even more for ice—driving cautiously and safely with extra focus.

Late Better Than Never!

Give yourself more time to reach your destination. Winter travel can be more time-consuming than other seasons, especially when there are storms or icy roads, which will give you less time to complain. Additionally, driving in inclement weather is already stressful enough without the added pressure of being late, which could impair your judgment regarding safe driving. Take your time to reach your destination.

Black Ice?

Although it appears wet, the pavement has ice on it. This condition is referred to as black ice. The snow and ice may melt during the day. However, ice may form on the roadway as the temperature drops late afternoon or evening. It is necessary to look out for black ice, especially at night. It is most dangerous to heavy trucks.

All Cars Are the Same in Snow!

On slippery roads, trucks with all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive can mislead you into thinking they are safe. Are they? They distribute their power to all four wheels rather than just two, giving the impression that you have significantly more traction than you do.

Please don't fall for it. Your vehicle will behave like any other normal vehicle when you press the brake pedal or turn the steering wheel because these systems do not improve its ability to turn or stop in the snow.

Remember these rules while driving in winter. Also, drive in the snow only if it's of utmost necessity.

Rea Setia is an passionate writer. She loves to share business tips and her experience about industry.