Winter trucking safety: Icy roads are no match for you

As truck drivers know too well, hauling loads during the winters comes with a whole new set of challenges. With harsh conditions like snowstorms and icy roads accompanied by low visibility, safety becomes paramount while hauling goods. So whether you’re a snowbird moving south or a trucker hauling goods across the north, here are tips to keep you and your cargo safe.

Perform a deep inspection on your truck before every haul

If you’re braving the winter roads, then paying special attention to the condition of your truck is a must. Ensure that before starting off a journey, a deep inspection takes place, Specific attention must be given to vital components such as the tires, brakes lights, and windshield wipers. Make sure that your tires have enough tread and are fully inflated as not doing so can limit your grip on icy stretches of the road. Additionally, make sure that your defogger and heater are in working order. Moreover, your windshield washer fluid should be quick-drying in order to withstand freezing conditions.

Adapt your driving to the conditions during winter

Driving habits need to be adapted according to the conditions for safe driving in the dead of winter. Truck drivers should avoid jumping straight into action and instead ease into it, so make sure to start off at a slow speed. Keeping distance between your own car and the car in front of you will also allow you to avoid any sudden braking or sharp turning. If the roads are icy, then your acceleration and deceleration should be gradual to avoid traction loss and prolonged but consistent footing should be maintained. Additionally, exercise caution and remember that Overpasses freeze faster than regular roads so an instance of ice on the bridge is common.

Anticipate emergencies

It is always ideal to be fully prepared for any unexpected challenges that winter driving might throw your way.

It is very important to stay prepared for emergencies while on the road. Always start by packing an emergency kit in your truck or hauling vehicle. The kit should have critical supplies like blankets, non-perishable food, water, a flashlight and batteries as well as a first-aid kit. It may also be smart to have a fully charged phone, backup charger, and tirechains, as a shovel and road salt would help you if you get stuck.

Stay In Contact With Weather Updates

Weather conditions can change throughout the day and having a clear understanding of that can serve you well. Ensuring that you check the weather conditions before starting off your route is vital. Constant weather updates along with road conditions can be accessed through several trucking apps which would help plan accordingly. Making sure that you have enough information would allow for more strategic and risk-averse decisions during snow storms or severe winds.

With Canadian winters around it is vital to always remain calm and composed as a driver while constantly checking for any problems within the vehicle, as winter classes driving in extreme conditions. Always remember that no load is worth risking your life, balance and position, always remember to keep an eye out for other drivers on the road as well as changes in weather.

Note: For more information, visit IRS website