3 Tips for Driving a Truck in Cold Weather

The cold weather months present multiple challenges for truck drivers. Road conditions become dangerous if one is not prepared. In this post, we share 3 safety tips to keep in mind as the temperatures drop.

1. Stock up on cold weather essentials

‍

Make a checklist of the items you need to keep in your truck at all times during your winter trips. It may seem like a lot of stuff to haul around, but you never know when an emergency might strike and you’re stranded on the side of the road in the chilly night.

‍

Here’s our list of winter essentials:

‍

• Blanket
• Flashlight
• Rain gear
• Gloves
• Jumper cables
• Windshield fluid
• Tire chains
• Bag of sand/salt
• Spare layers of clothing

2. Watch your following distance

‍

The roads get perilous when cold weather strikes. Not only do you need to be vigilant as a truck driver, but you must also worry about other drivers on the road. 

‍

Slowing down is the most important, as speed makes it difficult to stop suddenly, resulting in dangerous sliding. If anything, the safest route would be to go even below the speed limit.

‍

Watch your distance and keep ample space between you and the vehicle ahead. That way, if you do need to stop suddenly, you have more time to control the situation safely.

3. Be cautious when crossing bridges

‍

Overpasses, bridges, and other elevated road surfaces are notorious for being more slippery since they tend to freeze faster. Exercise caution and slow it down when crossing to avoid spinning out of control.

‍

Black ice is a tricky foe since it’s hard to see against the black asphalt. A telltale sign of black ice is that it makes the road look wet. Watch the cars in front of you to see if they shoot up spray when driving over the road, or check for frost on your windshield.

‍