Commercial Truck Driver Tips for Driving in the Snow

Whether you’re just out of truck driver school or a seasoned veteran on the roads, winter weather can make operating your rig a tricky proposition.

Here are winter driving safety tips for commercial driver’s to make rational decisions and be safe out on the roads this winter.

Prepare for the Worst:

Even though the weather may not look bad as you head out, it can change in a hurry.  Once the cold weather hits, it’s best to be prepared for the worst.  These items are good to have in case the weather changes for the worst:

• Gloves
• Rain gear
• Warm jacket for nighttime temperatures
• Food and water
• Salt or Sand to help keep your tires from spinning if you get stuck
• Windshield wipers
• Windshield washer fluid
• Plenty of gas.  Try not to go below half a tank. 
• Tire chains
• Jumper cables
• Batteries and electronic charging equipment.  You don’t want dead batteries to prevent you for getting help.

Additional things to do to be prepared are:

• Sign up for Weather Alerts
• Check your Equipment (headlights, brake lights and hazard lights)
• Control your Speed and Avoid Skidding (Pump the brakes, shift to neutral) 
• Watch for Trouble Spots (exit ramps, bridges, black ice, intersections, windy areas)
• Maintain Tire Traction
• Don’t be Afraid to Stop
• Get Help

For more details, visit https://www.dmv.org/cdl/winter-driving-safety-tips.php